Causes and Effects of Power Dips

Did you know that your connection doesn’t always get its required voltage due to some of your actions? And that could cause circuit failures without you even noticing.

As soon as the power supply enters your premise, your circuits are responsible for distributing the electricity to turn on appliances and equipment. Residential and commercial buildings run on a 230V and 50Hz frequency requirement (for Australia) to power up devices. However, this is not always the case when there is a problem with your connection. There is this so-called power dip that can bring harm in your circuit without you even knowing.  

Do you have any idea what it can cost you? Sydney Inner West Electrician is here to present the causes and effects of power dips so you can avoid harming your electrical wiring.    

What are Power Dips?

As mentioned, a building’s electrical system run on a specific voltage, regulated by the power grids. However, there are times when voltage fluctuations happen due to external factors. And a type of this fluctuation is a power dip.  

A power dip occurs when the voltage running in a circuit is lower compared to its required value. In technical terms, it is the 10% to 90% reduction of root-mean-square (RMS) voltage for one-half cycle to a minute. 

Bear in mind that it is different from a blackout since the current is still there and flowing. However, the power is lower than the required voltage and only lasts for a few seconds up to a minute. 

Causes of Power Dips 

Since your circuits and wires are not visible all the time, it is hard to detect power dips. But, knowing their causes will undoubtedly help you to prevent them. So, here are the three most common causes of power dips for you to take note:

Electrical Overloading

Electrical overloading happens if a circuit maxed out its required capacity (usually 15-20 amps each circuit). It causes an uneven distribution of voltage in an electrical system — some are over-supplied while others are under-supplied. Meaning, the under-voltage caused by electrical overloading is actually a power dip if it lasts less than a minute.   

Overloading can also make circuit breakers to trip or fuses to blow — both units are electrical safety devices. Without them, electrical emergencies will likely happen, which can be out of your control.   

Short Circuits

A short circuit happens when the wires’ conductivity is not in its optimal condition. It makes the current run to a different path, or it can unintentionally make contact between components. These can change the voltage distribution and eventually produce power dips frequently if not attended right away.   

Powering Up Heavy-Motor Appliances

Turning on appliances with motors is a risk for power dips. Specifically, high-powered motor devices momentarily spike up the voltage of the connection, making the other circuits to drop power. Moreover, they require some time to stabilise, so it would probably last less than a minute.  

Effects of Power Dips

After learning about the causes of power dips, it is also essential to know their consequences. You need to realise how dangerous they are if you don’t conduct repair immediately. Listed below are some of their effects:

Wire and Circuit Faults

Power dips have effects on the circuits even if you don’t see them. Yes, wires can manage a few voltage drops. But if it always happens, then expect to have electrical faults. They are hazards that can cause shocks, injuries, and burns. So, you must contact emergency electricians for immediate repair.

Connected Appliances Malfunction

Unplugged appliances are prone to damage when power dips often occur — especially those with microprocessors. They are sensitive to electricity changes since they only require a small amount of voltage to power up. Thus, voltage drops, even in a short period, can affect their internal circuits and wiring.  

Fire Breakout

Even though voltage dips happen for a short time, they are still fire-risks, especially if there are internal damages in your circuits or appliances. A small explosion from wires and machines cannot be controlled if the other materials in your property can spread fires quickly. Thus, it left you with no choice but to safeguard your wiring connection from power dips to be safe. 

Conclusion  

A power dip is a voltage drop that can happen for less than a minute. It is commonly caused by electrical overloading, short circuits, and powering up heavy-motor appliances. Moreover, it is an electrical problem that endangers your equipment and wiring connection. In the worst-case scenario, they can cause fires when ignored. Thus, it is crucial to have a trusted and expert partner that can handle its damaging effects. 

Fortunately, Sydney Inner West Electrician is your best and one-call away friend to solve the power dip issue residing in your building. We can install circuit breakers, repair short circuits, and upgrade wiring to help prevent hazards when your connection is experiencing voltage changes. 

Moreover, we provide professional advice on how to handle your circuits to avoid overloading. Also, we can safely detect wire faults with our fast and top-notch methodology. Our licensed level 2 electricians are trained and equipped with the right knowledge and tools to take care of your electrical needs.

We always got your back! So don’t hesitate to call us at (02) 8378 2829 or book your appointment here.