Proving Utility Provider Issues Due to Power Surge Incidents
Have you experienced issues with LED lights after power outages in a building or multiple buildings? If so, it can be challenging to prove that these surges are caused by your utility provider. Without the right monitoring equipment, it can be almost impossible to attribute the issue to an outside fault.
However, keep in mind that experiencing surges is almost a common occurrence following a blackout and restoration process. To prevent this issue, the installation of a surge arrester in your main panel is highly recommended. These devices are relatively inexpensive compared to replacing all the affected electronic equipment such as LED lights, computers, printers, and monitors, and can be installed even for large-scale commercial setups for around 300 dollars in labor fee.
Monitoring Equipment for Tracking Electrical Surges
One reliable method to monitor and identify surges on your electrical supply is by renting a mains analyser. This suitcase-sized device can record various interferences, such as spikes, dips, and interruptions, on your mains supply. It typically has its own battery to continue monitoring even when the power is off. While the device was costly 30 years ago at ￡3000, it’s likely to be much more affordable in today’s market.
Another approach is to reach out to nearby building supervisors to understand if they've experienced similar issues. If other nearby structures also report power surge problems, it may indicate a broader utility provider issue.
Conducting a Professional Audit
For a more definitive answer, consider hiring an electrical engineer to audit your electrical system and provide a detailed report. In many regions, local electrical grid operators offer online voltage reports, which can include a power quality report showcasing voltage surges and any anomalies in the power supply.
Local electricians can perform an on-site inspection of your home or building, checking for potential wiring, switching system, and electrical load issues. A simple yet effective way to identify potential faults is by touching each breaker to check for heat. Excessive heat may indicate that the circuit is overloaded with too many electrical devices. Be sure to conduct this check in a dry environment without signs of arcing and look for any blackening around the breakers and aluminum panel for signs of issue.
Understanding the Causes of Power Surges
It’s important to note that utility providers themselves do not typically cause power surges. External factors, such as lightning strikes, industrial activities in the vicinity, or personal welding in garages, are more likely to be responsible for these events. Therefore, it’s crucial to investigate and possibly mitigate these external factors to avoid future surges.
By taking these proactive measures, you can better understand and address the root causes of power surges, leading to more stable electrical conditions for your buildings.