Many of our clients have approached us after they have experienced problems in their poorly designed electrical systems. These systems can have serious consequences, including:
Safety hazards: Poorly designed electrical systems can pose a serious risk of electrical fires, power outages, and other dangerous situations.
Equipment failure: A poorly designed electrical system may not be able to handle the load it was designed for, which can lead to equipment failure and costly downtime.
Inefficiency: Poorly designed electrical systems may not be energy efficient, which can result in higher energy costs.
Difficulty in maintenance: Poorly designed electrical systems can be difficult to maintain, which can lead to a higher risk of failure and longer downtime for repairs.
Difficulty in expansion: Poorly designed electrical systems can make it difficult or impossible to expand or upgrade the system in the future.
Potential damages: Poorly designed electrical systems can cause damage to the equipment connected to it, leading to costly repairs.
So how should an electrical system be properly designed? This involves several steps, including:
Determine the electrical load: This involves identifying the power requirements for all the electrical equipment and appliances that will be connected to the system.
Conduct a site survey: This involves visiting the location where the electrical system will be installed to assess the existing infrastructure and identify any potential constraints or issues.
Select the appropriate equipment: This involves selecting the electrical components such as switchgear, transformers, generators, and wiring that will be used in the system.
Create a single-line diagram: This is a detailed diagram that shows the layout of the electrical system, including the location of all equipment and the connections between them.
Design the electrical distribution system: This involves determining the size and type of electrical service, selecting the appropriate electrical panels and breakers, and designing the conduit and wiring layout.
Prepare the electrical specifications: This involves creating a detailed list of the electrical components and equipment that will be used in the system, including the manufacturer, model number, and specifications.
Obtain the necessary permits and approvals: This involves obtaining all the necessary permits and approvals from local authorities before installing the electrical system.
Supervise the installation: This involves overseeing the installation of the electrical system to ensure that it is done correctly and in accordance with all safety and building codes.
It's important to note that designing an electrical system must be done by a licensed and qualified electrical engineer, following the local codes and regulations. The engagement of a Licensed Electrical Worker is mandatory in Singapore.