Why smoke detectors chirp: A Complete Guide to Smoke Alarm Signals and Maintenance

As a qualified electrician, electrical tutor, and avid nerd in the electrical industry, I have come across many electrical faults, potential hazards and situations that require immediate action. When undertaking an electrical installation condition report. In this article, I will list as many possible C2 codes as I can think of and provide some examples that would require property owners to carry out urgent remedial action to repair their wiring systems. I will only cover situations that would require a C2, but if you would like to know more about other codes and situations that would apply then there is an article on general codes for EICR. At the time of writing in November 2024, we are on the 18th edition of the wiring regulations (BS7671). Things can and do change over time so a few of these codes may differ as we get further into the future.

What is PAT Testing and Why Should You Care?

An electric circuit is a closed loop of wiring that allows electrons to flow from a power source, through components and devices, then back to the source. Think of it as a complete loop where electricity can travel, similar to water flowing through a circular pipe system. Without a complete loop the circuit is broken or "open circuit" and will not function. In this article we will look at various electrical terminology, the construction of a circuit and how this applies in real life situations like our homes.

The question on many of our minds when purchasing or living in an older property is the question of major maintenance. HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REWIRE A HOUSE?​ The answer is not as straightforward as you might expect but generally speaking, rewiring may be necessary every 25-30 years possibly longer. There are some exceptions to this and if you are considering purchasing a home, a wiring system that is older than this is not necessarily in need of rewiring. ​ Let me elaborate....

Electrical arcing is a phenomenon that occurs in electrical systems when an electric current flows through an air gap between two conductors. This process can lead to potential hazards, including electrical fires, equipment damage, and severe injuries. Maintaining safe electrical equipment and preventing accidents in both residential and industrial settings is vital to prevent issues like electrical arcing.

As an electrical lecturer, teacher, and electrician, I have spent many years dealing with the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of electrical systems. Through both theory and hands-on experience, I have seen first hand the importance of properly functioning electrical infrastructure, particularly in the wake of natural disasters like hurricanes.

​OCPD in electrical terminology stands for Overcurrent Protection Device or Overcurrent Protective Device. The main purpose of an OCPD is to prevent an electrical cable from exceeding the electrical current it can safely carry according to its installation method and any installation factors that have been applied. Where there are branch circuits off a main circuit there is often a supplementary OCPD to protect that particular branch.

When starting or rebranding an electrical business, there are a whole host of things that need to be considered. Perhaps the most important aspect is finding that perfect name for your company to bring in potential customers and to attract your target audience. The right name can create a lasting impression and assist with your brand identity and with so many electrical companies out there, it can be difficult to find catchy electrical company names that are not only a unique name but a memorable name that will lure in potential clients and create a lasting impression in people's minds.

Electrical problems can be worrying so let’s look at WHAT DO TRIPPED CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND BLOWN FUSES INDICATE so you know what to do in an electrical emergency. Blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers are not simply an inconvenience, they indicate that electrical issues are occurring leading to safety hazards with your wiring system. The occasional blown fuse or tripped switch may be as a result of a blown lamp or light bulb but more regular occurrences mean that electrical fires, equipment damage and possibly personal injury are real possibilities. We will take a look at the common causes and reasons for blown fuses and tripped circuit breakers, what they may mean about the condition of the electrical system, its circuits, fuse box and why you should call a licensed electrician to carry out necessary repairs rather than ignoring the situation.