These operate at elv (extra low voltages) between 3 and 12 V. The single bell, buzzer and many models of chimes are powered by dry batteries but the more powerful chimes and intricate bell systems have to operate from mains transformers. Usually a transformer is preferable for any bell or chimes. Where an illuminated bell push is used a mains transformer is essential as the lamp of the push would exhaust a battery in a day or so. Read the rest of this entry »
Of the two principal types of cooker control unit, the type incorporating a kettle socket-outlet is the more popular. Since, however, it is important that the kettle is not used on the cooker hob where its flex would trail over a switched-on boiling plate it is better to have the unit without a socket where it has to be fixed immediately above the cooker. Read the rest of this entry »
Small table cookers and other portable appliances having individual loadings not in excess of 3 kW are run off 13 A fused plugs and socket-outlets. They require no special wiring though extra socket-outlets may be needed in the kitchen when additional electrical cooking appliances are bought. These additional socket-outlets may be served from the ring circuit and spurs.
Family-size cookers, whether free-standing or built-in split-level, need an exclusive circuit from a fuseway of appropriate current rating. Read the rest of this entry »
Just because George Bush doesn’t give two hoots about global warming doesn’t mean you have to follow suit — do your bit for the environment and save power whenever you can — it is usually possible to do so without great personal inconvenience, and you will save money in the process.
If an appliance needs inspection, unplug it from the socket. No, don’t just turn off the switch — there may still be some current flowing.
When working on switches, sockets or, simply said, things that cannot be removed from the energy source, switch off the power at the main switch on the electrical switch board. To be on the even safer side, always wear rubber-soled shoes (only during the repair); it will reduce the shock should all your safety precautions fail (turning you into a fruitcake as opposed to a full-blown vegetable). Read the rest of this entry »
These have a similar motor to the vacuum cleaner; the most common fault being brush wear. Burning out of the windings is also fairly frequent and is usually caused by overloading due to misuse.
The popular low-priced rotary mowers are usually powered by a brush motor similar to that of an electric drill (power tool). Carbon brushes need replacing when they wear but the component which is likely to give the greatest concern is the thermal cutout usually situated in the handle. The function of this is to cut off the current to the motor when there is a risk of overload when cutting very long grass. Read the rest of this entry »
Always switch off the control before cleaning a cooker even if it is not being mantled.
Do not let metal cooking foil come o contact with spiral type elements. Take care if the cooker is mounted on eels and likely to be interfered with by youngsters.
Never leave fat in a pan unattended on hotplate and take care with the position handles of vessels containing boiling liquid in the presence of children.
Do not attempt to remove pieces of broken toast from a toaster using a knife other metal object. Pull out the plug tore releasing the obstruction. Read the rest of this entry »
Take particular care in the bathroom where special regulations apply.
Do not install a socket-outlet in the bathroom other than an approved shaver supply unit for a mains voltage shaver.
Do not make provision for using a mains voltage portable appliance. For example do not run a portable electric heater from a socket-outlet situated outside the bathroom i.e. on the landing or in an adjacent bedroom. If the tank cupboard opens into the bathroom and the tank has an immersion heater do not supply it from a socket-outlet (not a good method in any case) which could be used for plugging in a portable appliance. Read the rest of this entry »
Most, if not all, people know that mains electricity in the home is lethal. This means that if you come into contact with a live terminal, live wire or metalwork, which because of a fault is charged with electricity, you will receive an electric shock which could be fatal.
Electricity at the mains voltage of 240 V is present at every ceiling rose, lampholder, switch, socket outlet and other outlets. It is also present at every electrical appliance connected to the mains when plugged into a socket outlet and the switched socket is ‘ON’. Read the rest of this entry »
A huge variety of household appliances contain heating elements. The two basic types are the exposed single-wire element, most often used in hairdryers, fan heaters and toasters, and the metal-sheathed element used in ovens, grills, iron sole plates and immersion heaters.
This type of element is simply an exposed length of conductor which heats up when a current is passed along it due to the resistance properties of wire. As it is an exposed conductor, it must be housed and supported in a way that avoids accidental contact which could cause electric shock or burns. It must also be housed in a way that allows the heat generated to dissipate and do the job intended. For instance, a toaster needs a large aperture in which to place the bread so that it rests near the exposed element for it to function correctly. Read the rest of this entry »
