15/17 Suny Jigide Street, By Celestial Way, Ogudu Lagos.
Mon-Fri 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Distribution boards are crucial to any building’s electrical system. They distribute electricity to different circuits, ensuring that power flows smoothly and safely throughout the premises. However, like any other component of an electrical system, distribution boards can develop issues over time, affecting electrical safety and performance. We will explore some of the most common issues with distribution boards and offers guidance on how to address them.
Issue: Frequent tripping of circuit breakers is one of the most common issues in distribution boards. It can occur due to overloaded circuits, short circuits, or ground faults.
Solution:
Identify the Cause: Check if the breaker is tripping due to overloading. This often happens when too many devices are plugged into one circuit. Reducing the load on the circuit or redistributing devices can help.
Replace Faulty Breakers: If the circuit breaker is defective, it may trip unnecessarily. In such cases, it’s best to replace it with a new one to avoid unnecessary interruptions and potential fire hazards.
Professional Inspection: Persistent tripping could indicate an underlying issue that requires a licensed electrician to evaluate.
Issue: Loose connections inside the distribution board can lead to arcing, which creates heat and poses a fire risk. They can occur due to poor installation, vibration, or wear and tear.
Solution:
Tighten Connections: Ensure that all connections within the distribution board are properly tightened. This should ideally be done by a qualified electrician to avoid accidents.
Regular Inspections: Schedule regular maintenance checks to identify and address loose connections before they become a hazard.
Issue: Overheating can occur when the distribution board is overloaded or when there are faulty connections, which increases the risk of fire.
Solution:
Check Load Capacity: Ensure that the distribution board’s load is within the recommended limit. Consider redistributing the load or upgrading to a board with higher capacity if needed.
Replace Damaged Parts: If overheating is due to a malfunctioning component like a breaker, it should be replaced immediately.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Distribution boards should have adequate ventilation to prevent heat build-up.
Issue: Corrosion can affect both the board and internal components, compromising the board’s performance and increasing the risk of failure.
Solution:
Inspect Regularly: Regular inspections can help detect early signs of corrosion.
Moisture Control: Ensure that the distribution board is located in a dry area with minimal exposure to moisture. If this isn’t possible, consider installing a moisture-resistant enclosure.
Replace Corroded Components: Severely corroded parts should be replaced to ensure safety and functionality.
Issue: Circuit breakers may fail to operate as expected, either due to wear and tear or manufacturing defects, which can lead to an unsafe electrical environment.
Solution:
Replace Aging Components: Circuit breakers have a limited lifespan, and old ones should be replaced to maintain safety.
Periodic Testing: Test circuit breakers periodically to ensure they function correctly in the event of a fault.
Use Quality Components: Always use high-quality breakers to avoid premature failure.
Issue: Improper or missing labeling in the distribution board can lead to confusion, especially during maintenance or troubleshooting.
Solution:
Correctly Label All Circuits: Clearly label each circuit to show its purpose, such as “kitchen” or “living room.”
Update Labels as Needed: If new circuits are added or existing ones are modified, update labels accordingly. This practice enhances safety and efficiency during maintenance.
Issue: As distribution boards age, their components may degrade, and they may become less efficient or unable to handle modern electrical loads.
Solution:
Upgrade When Necessary: Older boards may not be equipped to handle the electrical demands of modern homes or businesses. Replacing or upgrading an outdated board can improve both safety and efficiency.
Regular Professional Assessments: A professional inspection can determine if the distribution board is functioning optimally or if an upgrade is needed.
Issue: Physical damage, such as dents or cracks, can expose internal components to dust, moisture, or accidental contact, while external interference from pests can cause wiring issues.
Solution:
Ensure a Secure Location: Place the distribution board in a secure, easily accessible, and dry location. Enclosures can protect against external damage.
Pest Control: Ensure that pests cannot access the distribution board area to prevent wiring damage.
Regular maintenance and timely upgrades of distribution boards are essential to keep electrical systems safe and efficient. Addressing common issues like loose connections, tripped circuit breakers, and aging components can prevent disruptions, reduce fire risks, and ensure a reliable power supply. For peace of mind, consult a licensed electrician for regular inspections and repairs to maintain optimal performance and safety in your building’s electrical system.
Whether for residential or commercial buildings, Core-Power Limited is here to provide expert guidance, maintenance, and upgrade services for your distribution board and electrical systems. Contact us to ensure the safety and efficiency of your electrical installations.
Phone no: (234) 9090000998 (Appointments)
