6 Common Electrical Issues in Commercial Buildings

Are you a business owner or facility manager in Auckland facing electrical challenges in your commercial space? Electrical issues can disrupt your daily operations and pose safety hazards. That's why it's crucial to address them promptly and efficiently. In this article, we will explore the 6 most common electrical issues encountered in commercial buildings.

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Warning Signs of Electrical Issues in a Commercial Buildings

Besides regular electrical inspections, it’s important to be mindful of warning signs that can indicate potential issues, prompting you to immediately seek the assistance of a commercial electrician. Recognising the signs of electrical problems in commercial buildings is of utmost importance. These signs usually include:

• Flickering, dimming, or unusually short lifespan of lights. 
• Frequent tripping of breakers. 
• Sudden and frequent failures of electronic devices. 
• Sparking, presence of black residue, heat generation, or non-functioning outlets. 
  

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1. Outdated or Faulty Wiring Systems:

One prevalent problem in commercial buildings is outdated or faulty wiring systems. Over time, electrical systems may become worn out or insufficient to handle the demands of modern equipment and technology. Wiring that was installed incorrectly, not properly grounded, or insufficiently spaced poses a danger. This can lead to frequent power outages, electrical surges, and potential fire hazards.

Q: What can we do to help prevent future power outages, electrical surges and potential fire hazards in the office? 
A: To help prevent future power outages, electrical surges, and potential fire hazards in the office, follow these simple steps:

• Regular maintenance: It’s important to speak to a licensed Master Electrician who specialises in rewiring projects, they will complete an electrical safety inspection ensuring your commercial space meets the safety standards as well as identify and address potential issues early on.
• Unplug when not in use: Unplug devices and appliances when they are not in use to reduce the risk of electrical fires and conserve energy.
• Avoid overloading: Be mindful of the number of devices plugged into a single outlet or power strip to avoid overloading the circuit.
• Educate employees: Educate all office staff on electrical safety practices and emergency procedures to ensure everyone is aware of potential hazards.

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2. Faulty Lighting Fixtures:

Commercial lighting plays a crucial role in providing a safe and productive environment. However, outdated or malfunctioning lighting fixtures can lead to inadequate illumination, flickering lights, or even complete failures, negatively impacting productivity, safety, and overall workplace well-being. Over time, as lighting technology evolves, the older fixtures may become inefficient or incompatible with modern lighting standards. These outdated fixtures may consume more energy, resulting in higher utility cost.

Q: How much can we save by switching to LED lighting in our commercial building? 

A: By switching to LED lighting in a commercial building in New Zealand, significant cost savings can be achieved. According to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) in New Zealand, LED lighting can use up to 85% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and up to 40% less energy than compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs).

There are numerous advantages of using LED lighting for your commercial business. Choosing to install these efficient lights on your premises means you will have access to the following benefits:

• The Savings are Significant: With energy bills increasing each year, upgrading your old lights to LED could result in a decrease of up to 85% in your electricity usage and have a huge impact on your profitability.

• Designed to Last: The LEDs generally have a long lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. You’ll also save on maintenance costs as LED’s can last up to 10 years with no hassle.

• Reduce Air-Conditioning Costs: Most businesses with commercial lighting use up a lot of energy on generating heat instead of light. If your workplace has many lights, you’ll be cranking up the air-con to compensate for the added heat that is being generated from your lights. Upgrading to LED lights means you can reduce your lighting as well as air-conditioning costs.

• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Installing LED lighting as a smart energy solution not only adds profit to your bottom line but also significantly reduces your carbon footprint.

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3. Data Cabling Issues:

Data cabling problems can be a significant issue in a commercial workplace for several reasons:

• Communication Disruptions: In a modern commercial workplace, reliable communication is essential for day-to-day operations. Data cabling problems can lead to intermittent or complete loss of network connectivity, disrupting internal and external communication channels, including email, VoIP calls, and instant messaging.

• Downtime and Loss of Revenue: Extended periods of network downtime due to data cabling problems can lead to significant financial losses for businesses, especially those heavily reliant on online sales, e-commerce, or cloud-based services.

• Negative Impact on Customer Experience: For businesses that rely on customer interactions or provide services through online platforms, data cabling problems can lead to a frustrating experience for customers, potentially driving them away to competitors.

Q: What do I need to consider in terms of structured data cabling to future proof my business for the next 5/10 years?

A: The crucial choice lies in determining your office's future location and system requirements. For Gigabit data, Cat5e is sufficient for most offices. Yet, to future-proof your office and accommodate large files, Audio Visual distribution, and CCTV innovations, Cat6 or Cat6a is recommended for longer-term viability. Working alongside a Registered Master Electrician and reliable partners is essential. They can advise on the ideal data cabling and latest technology tailored to your building's needs, ensuring the neat and efficient installation of data points throughout the premises.

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4. Overloaded Circuit Breakers:

Think of your circuit breakers as safety switches that cut off electricity when issues arise. While they typically last for decades, they can be damaged by arcing, surges, or simply age. Overloading a circuit with numerous appliances or machines can lead to hazardous situations like wiring or panel fires. Adding more circuit breakers is possible, but exceeding the panel's capacity can be extremely unsafe. If your building's electrical demands have surpassed the original panel's capabilities, consider installing a new electrical panel.

Q: Why does my circuit breaker keep tripping?

A: A circuit breaker is engineered to trip under specific conditions. When the electrical current exceeds its intended capacity, the breaker activates, interrupting the flow of electricity to the wall socket. Various factors can cause circuit breakers to trip, including faulty residential electrical wiring. As there are extensive wires in a commercial space connecting outlets to the breaker box, it can be challenging to determine if faulty wiring is the issue. Differentiating between a faulty appliance, an overload of appliances, or faulty wiring can be tricky.

To troubleshoot, follow these steps: Turn off and unplug all appliances in the area affected by the tripped breaker. Locate the circuit breaker (or alternative model) and attempt to reset it by switching it back on. If power remains stable in that area, the problem likely lies with the plugged-in items rather than the wiring. However, if the circuit trips again immediately, it suggests a potential issue with the wiring.

For peace of mind and efficient solutions, it is wise to consult a Registered Master Electrician. Their expertise enables them to diagnose and address electrical problems reliably and skillfully, ensuring a safe and effective resolution to prevent costly downtime and safety concerns.

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5. Improper Installation of Hard-Wired Appliances:

Installing non-plug-in appliances, such as dishwashers, overhead fans, or electric vehicle charging stations, is a task that demands the expertise of an electrician. Unlike plug-and-play devices, hard-wired appliances need a proper electrical connection to function safely and efficiently.

Calling a Registered Master Electrician ensures that the installation is done correctly, adhering to all safety standards and local electrical codes. Improper installation of these appliances can result in a host of issues. For instance, if wires are not connected securely, it can lead to reduced appliance performance, frequent tripping of circuit breakers, and even damage to the appliances themselves.

Moreover, the most serious concern is the potential for fire hazards or electrocution risks. Faulty electrical connections can cause overheating, sparks, and short circuits, increasing the likelihood of electrical fires, which can be devastating for any commercial property.

Q: How do I find qualified/ reliable electricians to properly install my hard-wired appliances? 

A: To find a qualified/reliable electrician to help install your hard-wired appliances, there are 3 top things to keep in mind: 

• Seek Recommendations: Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have had positive experiences with electricians for hard-wired appliance installations. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into the reliability and quality of their work.
• Check Licence and Insurance: Ensure that the electricians you consider are Registered Master Electricians who are authorised to perform electrical work in your area and have appropriate Workmanship Guarantee. A valid licence indicates their qualifications, and insurance protects you from liability in case of accidents or damages during the installation process.
• Read Reviews and Check References: Look for online reviews from previous customers to gauge the electricians' reputation and customer satisfaction.

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6. No Security System in Place:

Having no security system in place at a commercial building can lead to several significant issues and vulnerabilities, including:

• Increased Risk of Theft and Break-ins: Without CCTV cameras, alarms, and proper lighting, the building becomes an attractive target for thieves and burglars. 
• Reduced Employee and Customer Safety: A lack of security measures compromises the safety of employees and customers. 
• Higher Insurance Costs: Insurance companies often offer lower premiums to buildings with robust security systems. A lack of security measures might result in higher insurance costs due to increased risks of potential losses and damages.
• Inability to Prevent and Respond to Emergencies: Alarms and security lights play a crucial role in deterring and detecting emergencies such as break-ins, fires, or other safety hazards. Without these systems, there may be delays in recognizing and responding to critical situations, potentially exacerbating the damage.
• Legal and Compliance Risks: Depending on the industry and location, commercial buildings may have legal requirements and regulations regarding security measures. Failing to comply with these standards can result in legal liabilities and penalties.

Q: Who is the best to install a commercial security system? 

A: With 70 years of experience, Grammar Electrical has built a strong reputation for providing professional security systems and CCTV camera installations at competitive prices. Whether you’re after alarms to prevent theft or monitor internal business activity, call our licensed Master Electricians for a free installation quote. 

Neglecting to address electrical issues and security concerns in a commercial building can lead to various risks and disruptions. These include potential fire hazards, safety hazards, communication disruptions, data loss, increased costs, and legal liabilities. To ensure the safety, efficiency, and protection of your commercial space, partnering with a reliable electrical company like Grammar Electrical is essential. With their skilled Master Electricians and comprehensive services, they can effectively address electrical challenges, install new electrical panels, repair overloaded circuits, and provide top-notch security system installations. 

Don't wait for issues to escalate; take proactive steps to secure your commercial space with Grammar Electrical's expertise and experience. Contact us today! 

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