Socket-outlets situated off the main route of the cable do not have to be connected to the actual ring cable. Instead they are usually supplied from spur cables branching off the ring. These spurs are wired in the same size cable as that used for the ring.
Fixed appliances which may be connected to a ring circuit include skirting heaters, wall heaters, small water heaters and any non-portable electrical appliances having individual loadings of not more than 3000 W(13 A approx.). Read the rest of this entry »
Electric heating of water can be carried out in a variety of ways. These include small capacity heaters fitted above the sink, instantaneous sink heaters or immersion heaters in the hot water tank.
Small storage water heaters fitted over the sink or washbasin having capacities of up to about 3 gallons and electrical loadings of 1 to 3 kW are usually supplied from the ring circuit by means of a spur. Except in a bathroom, the outlet can be a fused plug and switched socket-outlet, preferably with neon indicator. Read the rest of this entry »
If only one appliance suddenly stops working and there were no flames, sparks or big bangs to indicate that it was a malfunction in the appliance itself, unplug it and try it in a different socket. If it is still not working, check the cord’s connection with the plug, as well as the appliance, If one of the connections seems loose or frail, unplug the appliance and try to repair the connection. You will either have to unscrew the plug, or dissemble the appliance to get to the cord connection. Read the rest of this entry »
Store tapes vertically to help prevent their stretching or loops forming and always put them in their cases tape face in. Do not store them near magnetic sources, such as loudspeakers or motors. As the signal is recorded on the tape in a magnetic format by the video, other sources of magnetism can distort or blank it. Do not store tapes in direct sunlight or where temperatures may be too high or too low. When hiring tapes from video clubs, check thatthe tape and cassette are in good condition. Do not touch the tape because grease from fingers will damage both tape and video head, but inspect the entry points for dust or flaking of the oxide (fine brownish powder or flakes). Read the rest of this entry »
Low insulation is best described as a slight leak to earth of electricity from the wiring of one or more of the components or wiring in an earthed appliance. If very slight, it will not harm the appliance but is an indication of faults to come and should be corrected immediately for safety reasons. The condition occurs during the progressive breakdown of the insulating properties of a normally electrically leak-proof system.
It may be caused by normal wear and tear over a long period, resulting in a breakdown of the insulating coating on wiring, motor windings, heater elements, etc. Such a breakdown of insulation may not result in a failure of this part at this stage and the appliance may still function as normal. This, however, is not an excuse to ignore low insulation; failure to trace and rectify it is foolhardy because it compromises safety. Also extra expense is likely to be incurred in the long run. Read the rest of this entry »
