What’s an RCD?

In New Zealand, Residual Current Devices (RCDs) play a crucial role in ensuring electrical safety. RCDs are protective devices designed to quickly disconnect the power supply when they detect a leakage of electric current from a circuit. They can be installed on switchboards or socket outlets. Here’s why RCDs are important for electrical safety in NZ:

Protection Against Electric Shocks

RCDs are a vital safety measure to protect against electric shocks. They continuously monitor the electrical current flowing through a circuit. If there is an imbalance, indicating a leakage of current (such as through a person), the RCD swiftly cuts off the power, preventing potentially severe electric shocks.

Reducing the Risk of Electrical Fires

Electrical fires can result from faults in wiring or appliances, leading to overheating. RCDs help mitigate this risk by swiftly disconnecting the power if they sense abnormal current flow. This rapid response significantly reduces the likelihood of electrical fires, safeguarding both property and lives.

Compliance with Regulations

In New Zealand, electrical installations are subject to strict regulations outlined in the Wiring Rules (AS/NZS 3000). These regulations mandate the use of RCDs in certain installations to enhance electrical safety. Compliance with these regulations ensures that switchboards and electrical systems meet the necessary safety standards.

Protection for Outdoor and Wet Areas

RCDs are particularly important in outdoor and wet areas where the risk of electric shock is heightened. They are commonly used in circuits supplying power to outdoor sockets, garden equipment, and areas with water sources. The sensitivity of RCDs to leakage currents means they are effective safeguards in these environments.

Enhanced Personal Safety

If you are using electrical appliances and equipment, RCDs provide an additional layer of safety. Whether in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, RCDs offer protection to those interacting with electrical devices, reducing the severity of potential injuries in the event of a fault.

Quick Response to Faults

Traditional circuit breakers primarily protect against overloads and short circuits. However, RCDs respond to very small imbalances in current, offering a faster and more comprehensive response to faults. This quick reaction time is crucial in preventing accidents and minimizing the impact of electrical faults.

Peace of Mind for Homeowners and Businesses

Installing RCDs on your switchboard instills confidence in the safety of electrical systems. Homeowners and businesses can enjoy peace of mind knowing that these devices are actively working to minimize the risks associated with electricity, creating a safer environment for occupants and property.

In summary…

RCDs are indispensable components of electrical safety in New Zealand. Their ability to detect and respond to current imbalances helps prevent electric shocks, reduce the risk of fires, and ensures compliance with safety standards. Whether in homes, workplaces, or outdoor spaces, the use of RCDs contributes significantly to creating a safer electrical environment.

The Importance of Ventilation Systems for a Healthy Environment

Title: Ventilation Systems: Breathe Easy in Every Season!

Hey there, fellow homeowners and DIY enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the world of ventilation systems and how they can make a significant difference in your living space. Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Ugh, another boring topic,” stick with me! Trust me when I say that understanding ventilation systems can truly improve your home’s comfort and air quality. So, let’s get started!

First things first, what exactly is a ventilation system? Well, in a nutshell, it’s a system that helps circulate fresh air throughout your home, while simultaneously removing stale air, excess moisture, and pollutants. Think of it as an invisible superhero that saves the day by keeping your indoor air clean and fresh. Exciting, right?

Now, let’s talk about why you should care about ventilation systems. Picture this scenario: it’s a scorching summer day, and you’re trying to escape the unbearable heat by staying indoors. But wait, your home feels stuffy and humid, even with the air conditioning running full blast. Enter ventilation systems! They help remove the hot and humid air trapped inside, allowing fresh air to flow in and cool your home. It’s like a mini tropical breeze in your living room!

But ventilation systems aren’t just for summer. Oh no, they’re useful year-round! During the cooler months, they help control excess moisture and prevent the buildup of indoor pollutants. Say goodbye to mold and mildew, and hello to a healthier living environment. Plus, proper ventilation can also reduce condensation on windows, saving you from tedious wiping sessions and potential damage to your window frames.

Now, let’s explore the different types of ventilation systems available. One popular option is positive pressure ventilation, which brings filtered air from the attic space into the house.  While this works OK in older homes, if you have a house built in the last 20 years, your only effective option is a balanced pressure ventilation systems that brings fresh air into the home and at the same time removes the stale, damp air.  The gold standard is a balanced pressure system with energy exchange so as the stale air is removed, most of its heat is kept and transferred to the fresh air being brought into the home.  

On the other hand, natural ventilation relies on openings like windows and doors to let fresh air in and push stale air out. It’s like nature’s way of ventilating your home! However, keep in mind that natural ventilation may not be as efficient as mechanical systems, especially in more tightly sealed homes. 

If you’re looking to boost your ventilation game, you might consider installing a whole-home ventilation system that supplies fresh, filtered air to your rooms.  They’re particularly useful during those transitional seasons when you want to open up your windows but don’t want to rely solely on natural ventilation.

Before you embark on any ventilation system project, it’s essential to consult with a professional. They can assess your home’s specific needs and guide you towards the right system for your space and budget. Remember, proper installation and maintenance are key to enjoying all the benefits of a well-ventilated home.

So, my friends, while ventilation systems might not be the flashiest topic, they certainly deserve our attention. With their ability to improve air quality, reduce humidity, and enhance overall comfort, they’re like the unsung heroes of home comfort and health. So, why not give them a chance to revolutionize your living space? Your lungs will thank you!

That’s all for today’s blog post! Remember, stay curious, stay informed, and keep exploring new ways to make your home a haven of comfort and well-being. Until next time!

Why You Should Upgrade to LED Downlights

Firstly What Are LED Downlights? LED downlights are a modern new downlight that contains light emitting diodes (LED’s) to generate the light. They are fancy pieces of electronic wizardry! Old traditional incandescent bulbs contain a metal filament that heats up and emits light when electricity is passed through it.  Halogen lights are essentially advanced forms of […]

Hot Water Cylinder Not Working – Do You Need An Electrician or Plumber?

We often get customers calling up with a hot water cylinder that needs repairing.  The first thing they ask is “Do I need and electrician or a plumber?”.  Good question.  Read on to find out a few quick checks you can do and which tradesman to call first.

The first thing to check is whether there is any water coming out of the hot tap after you turn in on.  If there isn’t any water coming out of the tap (and the cold water works fine) then call a PLUMBER.

Next, take a look at your hot water cylinder (HWC) and see if there is any water leaking from it or from any of the pipes around it.  If there is, then you’ve got a leak.  Turn the power off to the hot water cylinder and call a PLUMBER quickly!

If your cylinder is gurgling lots or sounds like it’s boiling, the hot water at the tap is way too hot or there is hot water spilling out onto your roof, then turn off the power to the hot water cylinder and call an ELECTRICIAN so they can check the thermostat.  Also make sure you keep kids away from the hot taps so they don’t get burns.

Is there water coming out of the hot tap but it’s cold? Then either your HWC isn’t working properly or you’ve used all your hot water for the day.  If your cylinder is connected to night-rate electricity, then the hot water cylinder only heats up at night.  Did you use a lot of hot water during the day (think showers, baths and running the washing machine on warm or hot cycle)?   By the late afternoon or evening your hot water may be luke-warm or cold.  If it’s hot again by the next morning, then chances are the cylinder is working fine.

When you are running out of hot water every day you may be on night rate and you can have your wiring changed.  This can give you the option to have the cylinder reheat as soon as you have used some hot water.  Call your ELECTRICIAN and they will let you know what your specific options are.

Still no hot water?

Check that the switch to the hot water cylinder is turned on.  It usually looks like a switch with a wire coming out below the switch and it is usually located next to the cylinder.  Ensure it is switched to the on position (down in New Zealand) for the cylinder to work.

If that’s looking OK, then check that the circuit breaker for the hot water cylinder on the switchboard is turned on.  When this switch is turned off, then try and turn it back on, then wait for a few hours to see if you have hot water again.  If the circuit breaker turns itself off again, then call an ELECTRICIAN.  For really old switchboards, check that the fuse wire for the HWC fuse is in place.  If not replace the fuse wire or call an ELECTRICIAN to do it for you.  Get them to take a look at the cylinder at the same time.

If we haven’t solved your HWC problem yet then keep reading…

It’s time to call a tradesman.  It’s probably a fault with either the hot water cylinder element (the thing that heats the water up), the hot water cylinder thermostat (the thing that controls the water temperature) or the relay so call an ELECTRICIAN.  Always let your electrician know that it’s a hot water cylinder you need help with.  Check that they can get to you promptly.  Ask for same or next day service during the week.  At the weekend ask for next working day service unless you are happy paying after-hours charges.

Doing Electrical Work On Your Own Home

To some people it’s tempting to do some DIY electrical work at home.  Perhaps you want to fix that broken light switch? Or maybe change the element in the oven?  What are the rules in New Zealand and what can you do yourself?   When is it time to call in a Registered Electrician?  Don’t forget that you can’t see electricity, a slight mistake and it can kill or seriously injure you.

Check out this article https://worksafe.govt.nz/managing-health-and-safety/consumers/safe-living-with-electricity/getting-electrical-work-done/doing-your-own-electrical-work/ from WorkSafe NZ.  We think it provides excellent advice on the legal and practical things you need to know before undertaking any work on your own home that you live in.

As the article mentions, you need to know and understand the electrical regulations and standards, and carry out any electrical work on your own home accordingly.  Not sure what the rules are?  Then it’s time to call in a Registered Electrician.

Are you a landlord?  Then there is important info for you in the article too.

Thanks for reading our blog.

 

What To Do In A Power Cut

It’s getting to that cold and often stormy time of year in Christchurch and Inland Canterbury when power cuts can occur – usually when we need the power most. Here are a few things that may help…

  • Check the Orion website http://www.oriongroup.co.nz/current from your phone – this will give you up to date information on the power outage and when the power is likely to be back on.
  • If you rely on a pump for your water, then the hot tap (hot water cylinder) is a good source of water for up to 5 days if you have a drain tap. After this time, if the power is still off, it is no longer safe to use the water from your cylinder.
  • LED torches or lanterns are far safer than candles and their batteries will last for ages.
  • If overhead power lines to your property are damaged in a storm, then stay well away from them and call Orion in the first instance. They will let you know what to do next and whether you need to call us. If you can’t get hold of them then give us a call for some advice.
  • If your mobile phone batteries start going flat, then you can charge them from 12V accessory/cigarette lighter in your car.
  • Turn off all the light switches at bedtime just as you normally would. There’s nothing worse than the power coming on a 3 am and waking the kids.
  • Also, make sure you turn off any other appliances that were going when the power went off, such as oven and stove elements, heaters.  This will ensure that you minimise any fire risks when the power comes back on.
  • If you need to keep running your farm, business or house then talk to us about getting a generator changeover switch installed so that you can easily power the building with a generator.

Our Easy Process for a New Heat Pump

We think that getting a new heat pump should be easy and understandable.  That’s why we have this easy to follow process and our heat pump prices include installation*.

Step 1 Buy Heat Pump Online (Yes, You Can See Our Heat Pump Prices)

The first question our heat pump clients usually ask is how much will it cost?  You are probably asking the same question.  That’s why we’ve created this online shop so that you can see our heat pump prices, and you can purchase online. Our prices include a brand new heat pump along with a standard back to back* installation of the heat pump.  If you need help selecting the best heat pump to meet your needs then fill out our Request Quote form and we’ll arrange a time to come and see you then send you a quote.

* A standard back to back install is when the inside and outside units of the heat pump are just through an external wall from each other, in a single storey building.

Step 2 We Do A Site Inspection

After you have purchased your heat pump, we will do a site inspection to confirm the locations of the indoor and outdoor units.  If the installation requires more piping (because the indoor and outdoor units will be further apart) or a condensation pump (because the indoor unit is on an internal wall and requires one) we will provide you a quote for the additional installation costs, so there are no nasty surprises at the end of the job.

Step 3 We Book Installation

Next we will book in a time to install the heat pump, and send you an email confirming the day and time.  Allow a full day for us to do the installation although we usually have the heat pump up and running in less than 8 hours.

Step 4 We Install Heat Pump

Our staff will arrive promptly and get to work.  Our installations are carried out by our staff who are certified Mitsubishi heat pump installers.  They will do a very tidy, professional job.  You will be provided with the user manuals for the heat pump.  An Electrical Code of Compliance (COC) from one of our Registered Electricians and a Tax Invoice will be emailed to you.

Job done!  Easy.

Control Your Mitsubishi Heat Pump Using A SmartPhone

Wi-Fi controllers can be added onto many existing Mitsubishi heat pumps and all new ones.

Turn the heat pump on using your phone before you leave work and arrive home to a warm house.

Furthermore if you forget to turn the heat pump off when you head out for the day, simply turn it off from your SmartPhone.

Mitsubishi Wi-Fi Controller Features

  • Turn heat pumps on/off
  • Change temperature
  • Switch modes
  • Change fan speeds
  • Change airflow direction
  • Develop temperature rules using the 7 day timer

Room Temperature Limits

Using advanced technology, the heat pump senses when the room temperature drops below the set minimum temperature  It then automatically turns on to ensure the minimum temperature is maintained. Ideal for children’s bedrooms, you can rest assured your family will stay warm this winter.

Give us a call on 03 371 7434 or send us an email to admin@wakefieldelectrical.co.nz to find out more.