Author: J & S Electrical Contractors

Electrical work during a construction project involves five main phases that provide unique opportunities to check in with your electrical contractors. Prepare your questions ahead of time or ask your electrician to give you an overview before the next phase begins. This will give you the time you need to collect your thoughts and prepare a few targeted questions. The purpose of this exercise is to give you, as the commercial building owner or manager, peace of mind and confidence that all is going according to plan. 

Large scale electrical projects for commercial buildings require considerable preparation. If you own or manage an industrial or commercial building, it’s important to carefully plan each step of the process. J & S Electrical Contractors, Inc. can help you design energy-efficient electrical systems for your apartment building, industrial facility, warehouse, or other commercial building. Our project plans place high priority on safety and security and follow OSHA standards as well as industry regulations. 

Understanding how electrical circuits work makes it easier to maintain and optimize the electrical system in your commercial building. That’s why the Master Electricians at J & S Electrical Contractors, Inc. have put together the following Q & A on the types of electrical circuits and how they work. You’ll also learn why major appliances and equipment require dedicated circuits. 

What Is an Electrical Circuit?

Circuits range from tiny microelectronic chips to huge power systems. Small chips can contain millions of transistors thanks to technological advances in the past 100 years. Electrical circuits consist of a closed loop of material capable of carrying electrical power through the wires and receptacles in your building.  

What Are the Types of Electrical Circuits?

There are four major types of electrical circuits:

• Close Circuit: When a load has its own circuit, it’s a closed circuit. The current flow value depends on the system load.
• Open Circuit: When you turn off a light switch, it’s called an open circuit. This can also happen when you have faulty wiring or other electrical components, resulting in non-working electrical systems. 
• Short Circuit: The plus and minus ends of a power source meet, causing maximum current flow. This can cause damage to sensitive electronics and your commercial electrical system.
• Series Circuit: When multiple loads (Bulb, Fan, CFL, LED, etc.) are mutually connected, it’s referred to as a series circuit. 

What’s the Difference Between an AC Circuit and DC Circuit?

Both AC and DC describe current flow. In direct current (DC), the electricity flows in one direction. In alternating current (AC), the current sometimes changes direction.

Examples of DC uses include cell phones and flashlights. AC uses include fans, HVAC systems, and lights. 

What Are Dedicated Electrical Circuits?

A dedicated circuit provides enough electricity to power larger appliances. A single circuit powers just one appliance. 

What Are the Sizes of Dedicated Circuits? 

It’s essential to know the right size circuit for appliances and equipment in commercial buildings. Otherwise, the breaker may continuously trip, increasing the risk of fire or overheating. The most common sizes range from 15 to 50 amps.  

What Appliances/Equipment Uses 15- to 20-amp Circuits?

These appliances often require 15- to 20-amp dedicated circuits:

• Dishwashers
• Refrigerators
• Coffee makers
• Garbage disposal units
• Washers
• Microwaves
• Hairdryers

What Appliances/Equipment Uses 30- to 50-amp Circuits?

Heavy-duty equipment such as compressors require 30-to 50-amp dedicated circuits. Examples of appliances and equipment using these higher circuits include:

• Dryers
• Electric water heaters
• Electric ranges
• Compressors
• Air conditioning units
• Electric furnaces

If you have a problem with power surges or short circuiting, we can revamp your electrical panel for greater efficiency, safety, and performance. From rewiring your building to using dedicated circuits to power equipment and appliances, you can count on the expertise of our seasoned Master Electricians. Subpanels can also help regulate the electrical flow throughout your property.

J&S Electrical Contractors can design electrical systems with the correct electrical circuits and other components to safely power your commercial building. Call 215-633-8330 or contact us online for assistance with designing, installing, and maintaining your electrical systems.

You can dramatically improve the security of your commercial property with the right equipment. Advanced lighting design can help you save money while keeping your property well-lit and secure. When you work with the team at J&S Electrical Contractors Inc., you can choose low-maintenance, energy-efficient options, such as LED lighting, that are also safer for the environment.

The holidays are typically a busy season for commercial property owners and managers. It’s the busiest time of the year for retail properties and you want yours to look its best. Apartment buildings and other properties also look more welcoming and attractive all dressed up with decorations and lighting. To give your tenants, visitors, customers, and business owners an enchanting view on a wintry night, you need a strategy that features safety first, without sacrificing an awe-inspiring effect.

When choosing LED light bulbs for your commercial building, it’s important to consider the difference between lumens versus watts. Unfortunately, many owners and facility managers look at wattage instead of lumens when purchasing LED bulbs. If you would like to understand the difference between lumens and watts, this blog has all the information you need to make an informed decision.