Otis Singleton
When electricity goes out, it can be challenging to determine whether to call an electrician or contact the power company. Power outages can be caused by various factors, such as severe weather conditions like thunderstorms, blizzards, or heat waves. In such cases, it is typically the responsibility of the power company to address the issue. On the other hand, if the problem is specific to your home, such as overloaded circuits or outdated wiring, an electrician may be required. Electricians are skilled professionals who install, maintain, and repair electrical power systems in homes, businesses, and factories. They use a variety of tools, from hand tools like screwdrivers and wire strippers to power tools like conduit benders. Electricians may work independently or as part of a crew, and their job often involves working in challenging conditions, such as cramped spaces or outdoor weather.
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What You'll Learn
When to call an electrician or the power company
It can be frustrating when you encounter electrical issues at home, and it is not always clear whether to call an electrician or the power company. Here are some guidelines to help you decide:
When to Call the Power Company
- Power outages: If your power goes out, check if your neighbours are also affected. If they are, this is likely an issue with the power company and you should contact them for assistance.
- Downed power lines: If you see a downed power line, do not attempt to fix it yourself or ask an electrician. Contact the power company immediately, as they have special response teams for such situations.
- Issues with the electrical infrastructure: If you notice problems with the electrical infrastructure outside your home, such as cables and pylons, get in touch with your power supplier right away.
- Problems with your electricity meter: The electricity meter is typically owned by the distribution network or your electrical supplier. If you have any issues with your meter, such as a blank display or suspected leakage, contact your supplier.
- No apparent source of outage: If you cannot identify a source of the power outage in your home (e.g., a tripped breaker or severe weather), the power company can check for problems with the grid and provide troubleshooting tips.
When to Call an Electrician
- Frequent circuit breaker trips: If your circuit breaker frequently trips, there may be a fault with the wiring or electrical panel. An electrician can investigate and resolve the issue.
- Lighting and appliance issues: If your lights flicker, dim, or buzz, or if you lose power to one or all appliances, an electrician can easily repair these issues.
- Overloaded circuits: Overloaded circuits can be dangerous. An electrician can install additional circuits and receptacles to address this problem.
- Upgrading outlets: If your home has older, non-GFCI compliant outlets, especially in areas with high water splash risk like kitchens and bathrooms, consider hiring an electrician to upgrade them to meet the National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.
- Tangled wires: If you have a mess of wires and not enough plugs, an electrician can help you add more electrical ports safely.
- Outdoor issues: Electricians typically cannot work on power lines from a pole or transformer to your home. However, they can address issues with outdoor lighting, such as a lofted chandelier, ensuring safe and professional installation or repairs.
Remember, when in doubt, it is always best to start by contacting your power company. They can assess the situation and determine if it is something they can resolve or if you need to call an electrician.
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What to do when the power goes out
Power outages can happen at any time, so it's important to know what to do when the electricity goes out. Here are some steps you can take to stay safe and minimise disruption:
Prepare in Advance:
- Take an inventory of items you need that rely on electricity, such as medical devices or refrigerated medicines. Speak to your medical provider about a power outage plan for these.
- Plan alternative power sources, such as batteries, portable chargers, or power banks.
- Ensure you have flashlights for every household member.
- Determine whether your home phone will work during a power outage and how long the battery backup will last.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup on every level of your home. Carbon monoxide is odourless and can be deadly.
When the Power Goes Out:
- Confirm what is happening. Check your main electric panel to see if a breaker has tripped. Try to identify the cause of the problem.
- If there are no tripped breakers, the problem is likely more than a local event. Check if street lights are out and if your neighbours have power.
- Report the power outage to your utility company. In deregulated energy markets, you may need to contact your local TDSP, EDU, or TDU.
- Protect your expensive appliances and electronics by disconnecting them from the power supply.
- Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed to prevent food spoilage. Consume perishable food within four hours or pack items with ice in a cooler to keep them below 40°F.
- Gather your family into the part of your home that is most comfortable, such as a basement in summer or an inside room in winter. Dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and be cautious with food to avoid illness.
- Use battery-powered lights or flashlights instead of candles to avoid the risk of fire.
Using a Generator:
- Generators can be useful during a power outage, but they must be used safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards.
- Always use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages.
- Keep the generator dry to avoid electrical shock.
- Connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow the generator to cool before refuelling to prevent fuel ignition.
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Electricians' qualifications and training
Utility companies employ electricians to respond to power outages and perform other electrical work. These electricians typically have a wealth of experience and qualifications in the electrical industry.
The electrical industry has various qualifications and training programs to ensure that electricians are competent and capable of completing specific tasks safely and effectively. While the specific qualifications and experience may vary, there are some standard requirements and pathways to becoming a qualified electrician.
One of the most common ways to become an electrician is through an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships typically last 3-4 years and combine on-site experience with technical training at a college or training centre. During an apprenticeship, individuals will work under the supervision of qualified electricians and supervisors, gaining practical skills and knowledge. The qualification obtained through an apprenticeship consists of two main parts: technical classroom training and vocational onsite assessments. Upon completion, apprentices will typically achieve a Level 3 technical certificate, which can include an NVQ or a Level 3 Diploma.
It is important to note that becoming a qualified electrician requires not only academic knowledge but also practical, on-the-job experience. This experience is crucial for developing the skills needed to work in domestic, commercial, and industrial environments safely and effectively.
In addition to apprenticeships, there are other pathways to becoming a qualified electrician. Some individuals may choose to pursue the required qualifications directly without going through an apprenticeship. However, to obtain the vocational qualification without an apprenticeship, one would still need to have worked in the electrical industry, typically for at least 3 years.
To be recognised as an electrician by the Joint Industry Board (JIB), individuals must provide evidence of their experience and knowledge. This typically includes holding a Level 3 Technical Certificate and the National Electrotechnical Training (NET) AM2 certificate, along with proof of working in the electrical industry for a reasonable period.
Furthermore, there are specific qualifications for those seeking to become domestic installers. Two qualifications are generally required: the Current Level 3 Award in the Requirements for Electrical Installations (17th Edition) and either the Level 3 Award in the Initial Verification and Certification of Electrical Installations or the Level 3 Award in Approving Electrical Work in Dwellings in Compliance with Building Regulations.
Overall, the electrical industry offers a range of qualifications and training opportunities to ensure that electricians are well-prepared to handle electrical work safely and effectively. While experience and qualifications may vary, the ultimate goal is to produce competent individuals capable of meeting the diverse electrical demands of modern society.
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Electricians' work environments
Electricians work in a variety of environments, both indoors and outdoors, including construction sites, homes, businesses, and factories. The work can be strenuous and may include bending conduit, lifting heavy objects, and standing, stooping, or kneeling for extended periods. They may also be required to work in inclement weather when outdoors. Some electricians may need to travel long distances to job sites.
The job can be stressful, as electricians often work under tight deadlines and in high-pressure situations, especially during emergencies. They are responsible for ensuring that everything is safe and up to code, which can be a challenging task. However, the satisfaction of solving complex problems and ensuring smooth operations can be rewarding. Electricians may also have to work in less-than-ideal conditions, such as noisy construction sites or cramped attics.
Most electricians work a standard 40-hour week, but overtime is common, especially in maintenance roles or when working for companies that operate 24/7. Those in maintenance roles may also need to work nights, weekends, and be on call. Electricians working in industrial settings may experience extended overtime during scheduled maintenance or retooling periods.
The work environment for electricians can vary depending on the type of work they specialize in, such as residential, commercial, or industrial. They can also pursue niche areas like renewable energy or automation. With experience, electricians can advance into supervisory roles, start their own businesses, or become electrical inspectors.
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Electricians' tools and equipment
Electricians require a variety of tools and equipment to carry out their jobs effectively and safely. The specific tools used by an electrician can vary depending on the nature of the work and the specialisation of the electrician. However, there are some standard tools and equipment that are commonly used by electricians across different specialisations.
One of the most important tools for an electrician is a reliable set of hand tools. This includes items such as wire cutters, crimpers, screwdrivers, and nut drivers. These tools are essential for tasks such as cutting and stripping wires, driving screws, and tightening connections. For example, Klein Tools offers a range of durable and precise hand tools designed specifically for professional electricians.
In addition to hand tools, electricians also utilise power tools for more heavy-duty tasks. Power tools can include items such as drills, grinding and polishing tools, saws, and concrete or mortar pumps. These tools help electricians efficiently perform tasks that would otherwise be time-consuming and labour-intensive.
Electricians also require specialised equipment for specific tasks. For instance, a wire pulling guide and a wire reel dispenser can be used to manage and dispense wires of various sizes. Additionally, tools like a magnetic laser level, a conduit bender, and a circuit tracer can aid in tasks requiring precision and accuracy.
Safety is a critical aspect of any electrical work, so electricians must also have appropriate safety equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes items such as safety apparel, knee pads, ladders, scaffolds, and eye and ear protection. Ensuring that electricians have the necessary safety equipment helps to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the job site.
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Frequently asked questions
If the electricity goes out, check if your neighbours have power. If they do, turn your main breaker off and then back on again. If that doesn't work, call the power company. They can tell you if there's a problem with the grid and give you troubleshooting tips.
You can prepare for a power outage by stocking up on batteries and other alternative power sources, such as a portable charger or power bank. You should also have flashlights for every household member and determine whether your home phone will work in a power outage.
You should call an electrician if you have overloaded circuits, hot-to-the-touch switches, or a lack of ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in rooms with potential for wet surfaces, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
Employment of electricians is projected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 80,200 openings for electricians are expected each year, with a median annual wage of $61,590 as of May 2023.
