3 answers
khamaje
Student
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
3
Questions
Asked
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What is your experience with troubleshooting existing electrical systems?
any problems at all from common to rare problems I should know. I am in trade school interested in electricians work
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3 answers
Neil Irvin
Plumber\Arborist
2
Answers
Beaufort, South Carolina
Updated
Neil’s Answer
Electricity doesn’t play around and it will hurt you.. that’s why I choose to be a plumber. Proper training and testing things before you assume it isn’t hot would be my advice.
Thank you, Neil!
khamaje
Rosa Joy Makandi
Computer Technician
6
Answers
Meru, Meru County, Kenya
Updated
Rosa’s Answer
There are a variety of problems encountered in troubleshooting electronic systems. By electronic systems, I believe that you mean a computerized environment and the use of ICT.
You can think of the problems encountered as falling into 3 categories. They are;
1. Software
2. Hardware
3. Environmental
Hardware issues are the most common and probably the simplest to deal with. They are also easy to detect. Some of them are incompatibility, faulty wiring, and components failure among others.
Software issues are mostly software bugs and erroneous programming. This may require the deletion of a whole system or calling an expert to examine the code.
As for the environment, things like dust, water extreme temperatures may be the culprits.
By reading more stuff and following appropriate articles you will learn more. However, no amount of reading will equal real life practice.
I hope you find this informative. Welcome to the field.
You can think of the problems encountered as falling into 3 categories. They are;
1. Software
2. Hardware
3. Environmental
Hardware issues are the most common and probably the simplest to deal with. They are also easy to detect. Some of them are incompatibility, faulty wiring, and components failure among others.
Software issues are mostly software bugs and erroneous programming. This may require the deletion of a whole system or calling an expert to examine the code.
As for the environment, things like dust, water extreme temperatures may be the culprits.
By reading more stuff and following appropriate articles you will learn more. However, no amount of reading will equal real life practice.
I hope you find this informative. Welcome to the field.
Thank you, this is really helpful.
khamaje
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
I can offer some advice and insights into troubleshooting existing electrical systems based on common issues that electricians often encounter. Troubleshooting electrical systems requires a methodical approach and a keen eye for detail. Here are some common and rare problems you may come across in your work as an electrician:
1. **Circuit Overloads:** Overloaded circuits can lead to tripped breakers or blown fuses. Identify the source of the overload and redistribute the load or add additional circuits if necessary.
2. **Faulty Outlets and Switches:** Inspect and test outlets and switches for proper functionality. Loose connections or damaged components can lead to malfunctions.
3. **Intermittent Power Loss:** Investigate instances of intermittent power loss, which may be caused by loose wiring, faulty switches, or damaged components.
4. **Ground Faults and Short Circuits:** Identify ground faults and short circuits using proper testing equipment. Fix or replace damaged wiring and components to prevent electrical hazards.
5. **Flickering Lights:** Flickering lights can indicate loose connections, faulty bulbs, or voltage fluctuations. Check and secure all connections and ensure the correct wattage for bulbs.
6. **High Electrical Bills:** High energy consumption may result from inefficient electrical systems or appliances. Conduct energy audits to identify potential sources of excessive power usage.
7. **Electrical Noise and Interference:** Troubleshoot electrical systems for interference and noise issues, which can affect electronic devices and sensitive equipment.
8. **Tripping AFCI or GFCI Breakers:** Investigate the cause of tripped Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) to ensure electrical safety.
9. **Malfunctioning Motors or Appliances:** Test and inspect motors and appliances for potential issues, such as worn-out components, damaged wiring, or faulty capacitors.
10. **Old or Outdated Wiring:** In older buildings, outdated wiring may pose safety risks. Consider upgrading to modern wiring systems for improved safety and efficiency.
When troubleshooting, always follow safety protocols, use appropriate testing equipment, and de-energize circuits before working on them. Document your findings and the steps taken to resolve issues. Continuous learning and experience will enhance your troubleshooting skills over time. Keep up with industry standards, attend workshops, and learn from experienced professionals to become a proficient electrician capable of handling a wide range of electrical system challenges.
1. **Circuit Overloads:** Overloaded circuits can lead to tripped breakers or blown fuses. Identify the source of the overload and redistribute the load or add additional circuits if necessary.
2. **Faulty Outlets and Switches:** Inspect and test outlets and switches for proper functionality. Loose connections or damaged components can lead to malfunctions.
3. **Intermittent Power Loss:** Investigate instances of intermittent power loss, which may be caused by loose wiring, faulty switches, or damaged components.
4. **Ground Faults and Short Circuits:** Identify ground faults and short circuits using proper testing equipment. Fix or replace damaged wiring and components to prevent electrical hazards.
5. **Flickering Lights:** Flickering lights can indicate loose connections, faulty bulbs, or voltage fluctuations. Check and secure all connections and ensure the correct wattage for bulbs.
6. **High Electrical Bills:** High energy consumption may result from inefficient electrical systems or appliances. Conduct energy audits to identify potential sources of excessive power usage.
7. **Electrical Noise and Interference:** Troubleshoot electrical systems for interference and noise issues, which can affect electronic devices and sensitive equipment.
8. **Tripping AFCI or GFCI Breakers:** Investigate the cause of tripped Arc Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI) or Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) to ensure electrical safety.
9. **Malfunctioning Motors or Appliances:** Test and inspect motors and appliances for potential issues, such as worn-out components, damaged wiring, or faulty capacitors.
10. **Old or Outdated Wiring:** In older buildings, outdated wiring may pose safety risks. Consider upgrading to modern wiring systems for improved safety and efficiency.
When troubleshooting, always follow safety protocols, use appropriate testing equipment, and de-energize circuits before working on them. Document your findings and the steps taken to resolve issues. Continuous learning and experience will enhance your troubleshooting skills over time. Keep up with industry standards, attend workshops, and learn from experienced professionals to become a proficient electrician capable of handling a wide range of electrical system challenges.
Thanks for the advice Jacob, I'll be sure to note your answer down and follow these instructions if need be.
khamaje