Electrician fined for letting an unlicensed trainee carry out work

A business owner has been fined $10,800 plus costs after he knowingly let an unlicensed trainee carry out electrical work on customer's property.


The Minister of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) said today in a statement that Dhiraj Gogna, director of LEDRUS Holdings trading as LED R US, pleaded guilty at Wellington District Court over the 2017 incident.


On the day of one of the offences, Mr Gogna arrived at a work site to "scope out" the work and then left his trainee and an apprentice to do it.


A trainee electrician is only permitted to carry out Prescribed Electrical Work (PEW) when they are directly supervised by a fully licensed electrician.


Two complainants - the owners of the home they were working in - raised the alarm after checking the qualifications of the trainee online and finding they only held a trainee limited certificate.


The homeowners had purchased a coupon from New Zealand deal site Groupon for "eight hours of labour by a qualified electrician".


Registrar of Electrical Workers Duncan Connor called the act "highly irresponsible".


"Licensed electrical workers are qualified professionals who have the knowledge to do the job safely and correctly. Incorrectly installed electrical work can result in serious harm and risk the safety of New Zealanders," Mr Connor said.


"When hiring an electrician, you can check that they are licensed by checking the Register online or asking to view their licence ID card."

Article From https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/electrician-fined-letting-unlicensed-trainee-carry-work

Five Signs That Your House Needs Electrical Repairs

Imagine living in a home without electrical power? That is not something that anyone would want. It is undoubtedly true that electricity is one of the best inventions so far and it has made life bearable. You can now prepare meals, store food for days without going bad, warm the house, and do other several things using electrical power.
Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand that although electricity has made life easy, it also poses a great risk to its users. Electrical faults, if not well taken care of, can cause damage to property in the house, or even in extreme situations, electric shocks can cause death.
Therefore, it is important to have an understanding of how to identify electrical faults that need attention in your home. Some common indicators of faulty electrical wiring include:

Flickering lights

When lights in your house are constantly flickering, that means that electrical power is not reaching them as supposed. This can be caused by short circuits in the wiring system of the house. Once you notice this, have a professional electrician check out the issue. It is important to note that short circuits are dangerous and can cause electrical fires.

Hot spots

One of the common indicators of short circuits is excess heat on some parts of the wiring system. If a short circuit occurs, the electrical energy is diverted to some parts of the wire, and the excess energy is emitted as heat. Common hot spot areas include areas close to the switches, and sockets. It is crucial for you to regularly check the path followed by electrical wires in the wall so that you can take note of such spots.

Faulty electrical outlets

It is evident that if one of the switches in your house is not functioning, there is an underlying problem. This can be caused by loose wires in the outlets, short circuits among several other reasons. You should immediately contact your electrician to have such issues fixed.

Electrical shock

It is essential to take seriously even the mildest of electrical shocks such as shocks experienced when touching electrical appliances. Such is caused by bad electrical wiring, which if not corrected, can cause significant damage in the future.

Sparks and burning odours

Sometimes when the outlets are overloaded or faulty, they cause sparks whenever something is plugged into them. In some cases, the outlets will produce a burning smell, and this should be particularly taken seriously. Burning smells from electrical systems could indicate possible electrical fires. To ensure safety in such situations, cut off electrical energy supply in the house by switching the power off from the main panel.

Conclusion

If you notice any of the signs listed above, ensure that you contact a residential electrician to rectify them. The sooner you do so, the higher the chances of reducing the damage that electrical faults can cause. Having electrical repair done ensures that you and your family or friends are safe in your places of residence.


From Our Electricians Blog Post Five Signs That Your House Needs Electrical Repairs

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Advantages and Application Area of LED Lighting Technology

LED Lighting Technology

Light producing diode or LED innovation is a new experience in business and residential lighting applications. Every dark area that needs to be lightened up and every item that requires indicator is now ending up being dynamic with LEDs. The reason is basic, the world is aiming to conserve energy, and LEDs are stars in the field of energy effective innovation.

The controlling advantages of LED over the standard lighting like; incandescent bulb and CFL, makes them the very best option for every brand-new installation and upgrade that needs to be brightened.
Talking about a few of the LED advantages that make them remarkable option:

Energy effective
LED converts 80% of your electrical energy into light energy. Changing the old lighting system with brand-new LED system on Iconic Miami Tower helped to conserve $259,767 each year in upkeep, energy and operating expenses.

Versatile and compact
LEDs are adaptable to any type of lighting application due to its accessibility in different colour and small size. It emits light in intend colouration and works smoothly in harshest condition. A single LED is enough for lighting indicator, and its cluster can shine an entire football stadium.

Manageable and cool
LED lights are much fresh and brilliant in comparison to conventional light sources. They can likewise be dimmed very easily according to requisite strength.

Long lifespan
LED does not stop working abruptly and reasonably have long beneficial life. This decreases the expense in regards to maintenance and reduces your headache for periodical replacements.

Focused and resistant to shock
With LEDs, you don't need to be dependent upon the reflector shape to get concentrated light. They are currently packaged in a manner to emit concentrated light. This is a helpful particular to feature illumination like in jewellery shop. And, being a solid-state gadget, they are challenging to damage with shock.

These benefits show that LEDs in all the methods are the best appropriate choice for both indications and illumination lighting applications. Nevertheless, as every emerging innovation has some issues, so LED isn't untouched with it. The only downside that LED installation has right now is the high initial cost. If you have guts to invest 1000 bucks for a few LED light bulbs, then LED lighting is 100% practical choice. Low quality LED light will degrade in colour more rapidly than the new branded one, so always look for high-quality Energy Star rated LED bulb.

Application
Whether you are thinking of setting up new lighting in the home or upgrading the existing one, wanting to shine your favourite displays, or embellish your yard swimming pool with dramatic lighting, LED is always there as an option for you. LED stars are actively producing enchant and vibrant environments in every possible sector like commercial, commercial, residential, security, public places, vehicles, electronics and health centres. LED has registered its existence in the public area and yet expanding with many possibilities.

A few of the application areas that are identified and enhance by LEDs are:

FEATURING THE RETAIL MARKET - Retail market that includes a shopping centre, jewellery store, garment store, store and other general stores are now becoming a point of attraction and interaction with the use of LED lights. LEDs can precisely highlight the product and set the aura of the store to show mood. The colourful and fresh lighting by LED boost the shopping experience and makes them feel glamorous with the power of light.

SETTING STATE OF MIND AT WORKPLACE - The right amount of creative and dramatic lighting make a state of mind of the workers to remain at the workplace. Due to its mobility and different colours, LED offers flexibility to illuminate any shape and style. The controlled strength and focused instructions of LED produces a comfort space environment to work.

Thus, LED is an intelligent relocation for them. Switching to LED light has lowered their energy expense without compromising with light quality.

Streets and parking structure are now using LED lights to appeal its visibility and security. Cities are upgrading to LED Street light to enhance light quality and efficiency.

INDICATORS AND SIGNALING - LEDs are actively utilized as lighting signs because of their low energy consumption, little upkeep and small size. Mainly one colour LED lights are being used in automobile and traffic signal indicators. LEDs likewise act as stars for fibre optic cables that uses its light for signalling in telecommunication and for lighting application.

ORNAMENTAL ART LIGHTING - Use of LED for a decorative function is standard practice. Individuals use numerous LED items to embellish their Christmas trees, frames, showcase and variety of LED things to produce festive light.

UNDERWATER AND SWIMMING POOL LIGHTING - With the improvement in innovation, LEDs are now offered in water-resistant form for marine application. LEDs are now capable of creating a significant lighting impact in your aquarium and glamorous pool area together with cutting your energy cost.
Most of the pool owners are now informing their pool water and landscape with LED lights. One of the crucial factors is LED brightness and shock resistant nature. Their multi-colour brightness will illuminate pool and health spa features successfully, and swimmers are fearless with the current while utilizing it. Accessibility of LED in various colours helps to produce desire impact and improve the tourist attraction to the swimming pool.

Water fountains, fish tank, artificial waterfalls and several other water features are glowing up by LED in a much brighter way and add to improve general pool's atmosphere.

As said previously, locations and possibilities of LED application are limitless and are just bounded by creativity. LED technology applies to any wanted location; you need a thoughtful and creative method to utilize it accordingly. Knowing the necessary, installation and application of LED innovation will help you to opt it for better lighting experience and proves an advance for tidy and green environment.

If you have guts to invest 1000 bucks for a couple of LED light bulbs, then LED lighting is 100% rewarding alternative. The vibrant and crisp lighting by LED boost the shopping experience and makes them feel glamorous with the power of light.

Changing to LED light has reduced their energy expense without compromising with light quality.

Cities are updating to LED Street light to enhance light quality and effectiveness. LEDs likewise act as stars for fibre optic cables that uses its light for signalling in telecommunication and for lighting application.

From Our Blog Post Advantages and Application Area of LED Lighting Technology

What Are Some Common Workplace Electrical Hazards?

 

Electrical Hazards

Of all the energy sources used in the workplace, electricity has the most significant potential to injure seriously or cause fatalities. The human body is an excellent conductor of electricity, and even non-fatal electric shocks can cause severe and permanent injury.
Electrical injuries include burns, electrocution and shock. Electric shock can cause muscle spasms, breathing failure, irregular heartbeat, severe burns, unconsciousness and can be fatal.
Electric shock can arise from exposed contacts, live electrical equipment, damaged insulation and wet conditions. An electrical fire can occur from loose connections, heating equipment, short circuits and the incorrect electrical equipment in hazardous environments.
The main electrical hazards in the workplace are:

• Contact with live parts of tools, equipment, extension cables and machinery.
• Electrical faults causing fires.
• Fires or explosions where electricity is the source of ignition.

Safe Work Practices

Safe work practices include ensuring that you follow these electrical safety requirements:

• Make sure that you know where the switch is for each fixed machine so you can cut off the power in an emergency.
• When using portable electric tools or equipment, make sure that you use socket outlets close by so that equipment can easily be disconnected in an emergency.
• Switch off and unplug tools, machinery and equipment before cleaning, making adjustments, servicing or changing attachments. Also, unplug tools when not in use.
• If there is an electrical problem, always try and disconnect the power by turning the main power switch off first.
• Make sure that all electric cords are in good condition and have been tested and tagged before using them. Check for any damage or exposed wires, fraying or cracked leads, and cracked or broken power sockets or plug tops. Replace any damaged leads correctly, or have them replaced by an electrician.
• To avoid electric shock, keep all electrical cords and electric power tools, equipment and machinery dry and clear of water or damp areas. Avoid using power tools in damp or wet locations. Preferably use cordless tools for damp or wet locations.
• Use residual current devices (RCD) when using electric power tools and when working outside with electrical equipment. When using mains power, use an isolating transformer.
• Keep all electrical power cords well clear of the working area.
• Always have dry hands when touching electrical appliances or sockets.
• Never operate electric power tools near flammable liquids or gases, or in an explosive atmosphere.
• Ensure that the air vents in electric power tools are kept free of dust, oil, wood and plastic or metal scraps so that the motor is well ventilated and will not overheat
• If you come across suspect or faulty equipment, do not use it and report to your supervisor.

Electrical Safety Awareness for Non-Electrical Workers

From Our Electrical Blog Post What Are Some Common Workplace Electrical Hazards?

Electrical Protective Devices

There are various protective devices that can be used with portable electric power tools. These include the isolating transformer, the earth-leakage circuit breaker and the RCD.

Isolating Transformer

The isolating transformer plugs into the power supply and provides one of the safest ways to use a portable power tool. A portable power tool connected to an isolating transformer is fully isolated from earth. If a fault occurs, you will not receive an electric shock. You must plug the transformer into the power outlet (wall socket) so that it isolates the whole circuit. This is especially important when you're using tools connected to extension cords. If you plug the transformer into the end of an extension cord, the cord is not protected.

Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker

An earth leakage circuit breaker also plugs into the power supply. It will cut off the power very quickly if a live part is touched or otherwise earths.

Residual Current Devices (RCD)

RCDs are devices that can sense a leakage of current in a circuit, and switch the circuit off. All RCDs legally require a test button to check whether they are operating efficiently and correctly. You should test an RCD regularly to ensure that it will work properly should a fault develop in the circuit. Types of RCD include

• The plugin RCD adaptor is suitable for use with most portable electric tools and appliances. You plug the tool, appliance or extension cord directly into the RCD adaptor
• The inline RCD extension cord is a safer alternative to a normal extension cord. You can plug it into any power outlet, and it protects the user of a power tool or appliance.
• The fixed wired wall mounted RCD is permanently wired into bathrooms, kitchens and laundries. You use this type of RCD to run shavers, hairdryers, smoothing irons and other similar appliances.
• The switchboard mounted RCD is permanently installed at the switchboard and can be wired to provide protection to a complete circuit.

Double Insulated Tools

The international symbol for double insulation is a square within a square. Double insulated tools have additional insulation between any exposed metal parts and the insulation of the current-carrying parts, hence the term "double insulation". A double insulated tool may be used inside or outside, in wet or dry conditions or on earthed metals, but it is sensible to use an isolating transformer with double insulated tools. The lead supplying power to the tool needs to be electrically safe as well, either through an isolating transformer or RCD. Even when double insulted tools marked with a double square are used. Double insulation will not protect the user from risks caused by faulty leads or plugs.

Residual Current Devices (RCD) - How they work

 

From Our Electrical Blog Post Electrical Protective Devices

Heat Pump Repair

Where you live is sometimes dictated by factors like your job location and as such you never really get the chance to decide on the best place to live. Unluckily, some areas experience extreme weather conditions, which makes it unbearable to live there. However, with the advancements in technology, devices such as the heat pump have been developed, which helps in regulating atmospheric conditions of a place to make it habitable.
It is essential to point out that you don’t have to live in a region with extreme weather conditions for you to have a heat pump installed in your house. The heat pump is generally a heat, ventilating, and air conditioning unit which can be used to heat or cool a room anytime and anywhere. So, if you don’t have one installed, it is high time you looked for heat pump Rotorua services and had one installed in your house.
With the great benefit that this device brings, it is vital to ensure that it is given the best care in terms of maintenance and repair. For some people, it is difficult for them to realise when their heat pump requires repair services, and that’s why this article has compiled some pointers that can help homeowners know when to seek Rotorua heat pump repair services.

Old Age

It is a good thing that you have had your heat pump serve you for more than a decade, but it is time you had it repaired or replaced. This is because the old model heat pumps have reduced efficiency, which results in high energy consumption hence higher bills for you. Heat pump manufacturers are now building more efficient devices, which can help you save on costs.

Uneven Distribution Of Temperatures

Your heat pump is supposed to distribute heat regularly across the entire room. If at all you notice that some areas are warmer than others, then that’s an indicator of an underlying problem in the heat pump. You can consult a Rotorua heat pump expert to find out where the problem is emanating from and have it repaired.

Rising Electricity Bills

A properly functioning heat pump should not lead to increased bills every month. Once you notice that the bills are going up, you must have a heat pump Rotorua expert have a look at the device. In some cases, some repair may restore the machine into its original working state, but in other cases, you may have to install a new heat pump system.

Constant Breakdown

At a point in time, it is typical for a device that’s used regularly to experience some issues, and a simple repair is all that’s needed. However, if the machine starts to break down now and then, that calls for you to have it removed and install a new one. If you choose to stick with your heat pump that’s behaving this way, you will realize that you will have incurred more costs in the long run on repairs, compared to what you would have incurred in installing a new one.

Conclusion

A faulty heat pump has no benefit to your home, and that’s why if your heat pump is affected by any of the factors above, it is time for you to take action.

From Our Electrical Blog Post Heat Pump Repair