Below are definitions to some standard terminology in the electrician business. For more information about the electrical service industry, click over to our links page.
Circuit Breakers / Fuses: Devices installed in the service panel of a home to limit the flow of electricity through a circuit. The breaker rating determines the maximum flow. Circuit Extensions: To extend or add-on to an existing circuit to provide an additional power source. Code Corrections: Procedure designed to eliminate wiring conditions that do not meet National Electrical Code requirements and safety conditions. Distribution Equipment: A device designed to provide electricity to multiple connections. Energy Saving Devices: Devices utilized within a dwelling designed to more efficiently make use of energy sources while providing heating, cooling, and light. Heater: A heat source (gas or electric) used to adjust the temperature inside a dwelling from a cold to a warm condition. High-Tech Troubleshooting: A procedure performed by a trained technician for the purpose of locating and identifying electrical problems within an electrical system. Load Center: Source for all power to the home. All circuits originate from the "Load Center" or "Service Panel." Circuit breakers are located within this panel. Low Voltage: A wiring system that provides power to some electronic devices operating on a voltage level much lower than the standard 110 volts. Such devices might be doorbells and thermostats. Motors: Electronic device used to move, switch, or adjust one or more of the systems within a dwelling. Receptacles: Power sources located throughout a building to provide electricity where needed. Smoke And Carbon Dioxide Detectors: Wall and ceiling mounted sensors located throughout the home used to alert occupants of deadly gasses and smoke inside the home. Switches: Circuit interruption devices used to control the flow of electricity to lights, appliances, and outlets. Thermostat: A low voltage electronic switching device that monitors temperatures inside the home and turns on and off the heating or cooling system in the home. Track And Accent Lighting: Condition specific lighting that meets special lighting requirements, providing variable lighting degrees of light and may distribute light in multiple directions. Transfer Switch: An electronic device that under certain conditions will disconnect from one power source and connect to another power source. Wiring: A distribution network of wire that conducts electricity to receptacles, switches and appliances throughout a building/home to provide electricity where needed. Back to top
