Your electrical panel is constantly working hard behind the scenes to provide the flow of power to the rest of your home. Panels take the electrical current that enters your home and move it safely to the various areas that require power. Sometimes, you might notice that your electrical panel is struggling to perform its job well. 

When should you consider upgrading your electrical panel? Here are a few things you should pay attention to regarding an upgrade to your electrical system: 

Your Electrical Panel Surpassed Its Expected Lifespan

Like all your appliances, electrical panels have an expected lifespan that you should consider before you make an upgrade. Most of the models on the market today will last at least 25 years, though some can extend up to 40 years. 

It might be time for an electrical panel upgrade if yours falls outside this window. 

Flipping Circuit Breakers

Do you find yourself constantly returning to the circuit breaker panel to flip the switch and repower the rest of your home? This is a sign that a professional electrician needs to take a look at your home's electrical system and possibly update it. 

An occasional flipped breaker might not indicate an issue, but keep an eye on repeated issues. 

Alternatively, electrical panel upgrades might be warranted if your current electrical panel doesn't use circuit breakers at all. This is common in much older homes and may even be an indicator that your panel is past its useful lifespan. Upgrade electrical panel systems to meet the current criteria for safety.

Spotting Electrical Hazards

Electrical fires should be a major concern for every homeowner. If you notice that you smell burning, the first place you should look is your electrical panel. When the smell of smoke seems to be originating from the electrical panel, get help immediately! 

If your electrical panel is warm or hot to the touch, you need help as soon as possible! Make sure that the burning smell originates with your panel and not the plastic of your outlet; this could represent a different problem altogether. 

Along the same lines, look for signs of rust and water damage. Don't touch electrical panels that show signs of water damage! Rust, broken pieces, and even corrosion are all signs that an upgraded electrical panel is required. Electrical systems should never be wet, so this should be a major cause for concern. 

Get Help From Trusted Electricians

Is it time to consider upgrading electrical panels in your home? An efficient electrical system minimizes your risk of house fires and can keep your home running smoothly. But you should only trust the installation of a new electrical panel to a licensed electrician. If you need Winnipeg electricians, Powertec Electric can help. 

We can replace your existing panel with something new and more effective. Reach out to us today to learn more! 

In 2018, the Government of Manitoba published the 13th Edition of the Manitoba Electrical Code (for those of you wondering, the previous edition was published in 2015). The 13th Edition is the most current edition as of the writing of this article (early April 2023).

Here’s what we’re not going to do over the course of this article. We’re not going to take you step by step through the electrical code. We’d have to explain every amendment and every part of the code and to do that, you’d need to understand both electrical systems and legalese—and if you did, you wouldn’t need us to explain the code to you.

Instead, we’re going to look at what the code seeks to accomplish, the difference between electrical codes in Winnipeg and Manitoba, the permitting you’ll need to install your own electrical, and a guide you can use for wiring your home.

That’s still a lot of information to cover on a topic we find absolutely electric—so let’s get started!

The Goal of Manitoba’s Electrical Code

The basic goal of an electrical code is to ensure that the electrical systems installed in your home are safe to use. You may be fascinated to learn that the electrical code goes beyond simply ensuring that your wiring is safe—it provides specific instructions as to how outlets are to be used, how many light sources must be provided in various circumstances, and more.

While Manitoba’s Electrical Code provides the rules and regulations for electrical throughout most of Manitoba, Winnipeg has its own electrical by-laws that must be followed. They’re largely in line with Manitoba’s Electrical Code but different enough that you can’t just follow Manitoba’s code when installing electrical systems in Winnipeg.

In other words, Manitoba’s Electrical Code is designed to ensure that your home is safe in more ways than one—it’s not just about preventing blackouts and electric fires.

Winnipeg’s By-law Vs. the Manitoba Electrical Code

Bureaucracy—always a joy.

With that in mind, here’s the Winnipeg Electrical By-law, updated in 2022!

Obtaining a Permit

You can’t just work on your electrical system without getting a permit. You can apply for an electrical wiring permit in Winnipeg online or in person. You can’t, however, obtain certain permits as a homeowner; renewable energy installations, work over 200 amps, and a number of other installations must be provided by a contractor.

Residential Wiring Guides

Permits can be obtained for residential properties outside of Winnipeg with Manitoba Hydro. Note that some restrictions exist on the permits you can get without a licenced electrician here, too.

Not that you should be doing any of this without a licenced electrician. As Louie the Lightning Bug would tell you, “You gotta play it safe around electricity.” Inspections are always necessary after new installations—all to keep you safe.

Again, we highly recommend avoiding wiring anything yourself. Installing and modifying electrical systems is not a simple task. You’re here trying to understand electrical codes. Think that’s daunting? The actual work of wiring them is about a billion times more complex.

That said, both Winnipeg and Manitoba have simplified the legalese, so you only have to understand wiring to get a basic idea of how to wire your home. Note that Winnipeg’s residential guide isn’t up to date (it was published in 2018, while the most recent by-laws were published in 2022). Here are those resources for you:

Manitoba’s Residential Wiring Guide
Winnipeg’s Electrical Installations Homeowner’s Guide

We encourage you to read through these guides to get a better understanding of Manitoba’s Electrical Code (and Winnipeg’s, for that matter)—the code is offered in a much simpler form in these guides.

That said, we again encourage you to get electrician services for residential installations or modifications of any kind. This is dangerous, complex, and costly stuff—don’t leave it up to chance.

The real estate market is hot right now, and first-time buyers are understandably delighted when their offer is finally accepted on a home that will suit their needs.  In the flurry of documents, cardboard boxes, and decorating runs to home stores, getting familiar with your new home’s electrical system may not feel like your highest priority.  

But besides the new paint and area rugs, it is definitely worth dedicating a few minutes to electricity.  After all, electricity powers everything in your new home and is critical to your safety, pocketbook, and comfort as a new homeowner.  

Here are a few tips that won’t involve too much of your time but will ensure that your home’s electrical system is on track in a variety of ways:

Knob and Tube

In the Winnipeg area, many older homes have knob and tube wiring.  If you didn’t ask about knob and tube wiring when you made the offer on your new home, you should definitely do it now.  Knob and tube is an obsolete method of electrical wiring, and it can be difficult to get an insurance policy (or premiums may be extremely high) if your home has knob and tube wiring.  

Removing knob and tube wiring is an extra expense, but it’s easier now than once you’ve moved in and furnished your home.  It will keep your household safe and save you costs and hassles in the future.  Of course, it will also be easier to sell your home when the time comes (though you may not even be thinking about that at this point).

Circuit Breaker

One of the most important things to know about your new home is how to cut and restore the power.  Ensure that you know where your main circuit breaker is and how to use it.  Being aware of the voltage requirements for different appliances will help you not to overload the circuits, preventing issues in the future.

Outlet Safety

There are a few things to consider when it comes to outlets in your new home.  First of all, be sure to buy and install child-proof outlet covers immediately if there are children in your life.  Secondly, double-check that all outlets in rooms with running water (kitchen, bathrooms, laundry room, etc.) are GFCI.  GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets automatically shut off power if an electrical fault is detected.  Lastly, if you have concerns about any of your outlets, have your home inspected by a qualified electrician to make sure that no updates are necessary.  Tip-offs that something isn’t quite right might include outlets that are warm or hot, smell strangely or are smoky, spark, buzz, are discoloured, or regularly trip the breaker.

Find a Trustworthy Electrician

There are a lot of things to think about as a new homeowner, and when you need advice, it’s critical to find service providers you can rely on and trust.  That’s why Powertec Electric is committed to providing award-winning service with integrity and professionalism.  If you’re looking for Winnipeg electricians who can assist you with all of the tips listed above, and more, contact us today.  

When working with electrical systems, it’s vital to know the difference between amps, volts, and watts. An understanding of these electrical terms are helpful when it comes time to repair any old household wiring. While you may run into some confusion seeing terms like amps, volts, or watts, they aren’t that difficult to understand. We’ll be breaking down everything you need to know about these electrical terms and what they do:

Definitions 

What Are Amps?

Amps, short for amperage or amperes, are the unit that measures the volume of electrons that are found in an electrical circuit. Capital “A” is the symbol for amps or amperes. 

What Are Volts?

Volts, short for voltage, represent the speed at which electrons can pass a specific point within a closed circuit. Voltages represent the difference potential between two points of a conductor that’s made of wire, which then carries a constant current. A constant current equals one amp, and the energy then dissipated between the two points is one watt. A capital “V” is the symbol for a volt. 

What Is a Watt?

A watt is derived from the formula V x A = W. Watts describe the rate of power flow that results from amps flowing through the electromotive force of the volt. The watts then measure the power generated within an electrical system and can be symbolized as a capital “W”.

It’s important to know that watts and volts can’t exist independently. A watt is created from a combination of volts and amps; it can’t exist alone. 

The Difference Between Volts and Amps

Amps and volts work together but with distinct functions within the electrical circuit. While an amp can measure electricity, volts represent the difference in potential that allows amps to flow through the closed circuit. 

What Are Volt-Amperes 

Volt-amperes are units of measurement for electrical power, calculated by multiplying a voltage by the amperage. Volt-amperes are used in determining how much power the current will draw when in use. 

Volt-Amperes and Watts

While volt-amperes and watts both measure the power of electricity, what makes them different from each other? The type of power measured is what makes a difference in the distinction between the two. Volt-amperes measure "apparent power" while watts measure "real power". Real power is defined by the amount of energy being generated or consumed. Apparent power calculates the amount of electricity that the current is drawing in. 

Why Are They Important?

It’s important to understand these terms, as it will make calculating electrical use and understanding power supply a lot easier. It may seem like a lot to take in at first, but a basic understanding of how these electrical sources behave can help solve any future problems. 

Conclusion

Are you looking for the best possible electrical work when it comes to your home or place of business? Get the most efficient solutions from a qualified electrician in Winnipeg. Not only do they provide services for residential, commercial, and industrial customers, but they ensure that their clients always come first.

[et_pb_section fb_built="1" admin_label="section" _builder_version="3.22" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_row admin_label="row" _builder_version="3.25" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" global_colors_info="{}"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.25" custom_padding="|||" global_colors_info="{}" custom_padding__hover="|||"][et_pb_text admin_label="Text" _builder_version="4.14.8" background_size="initial" background_position="top_left" background_repeat="repeat" hover_enabled="0" global_colors_info="{}" sticky_enabled="0"] Electric transformers are everywhere, but a lot of people don’t really know what they’re used for. This blog will explain their uses and purposes:

Significance

Simply, electrical transformers are machines that are built and used to transfer electricity between different circuits. These transformers assist in the efficiency of power systems by raising and lowering the voltage levels that are required for different sources.

How do they work?

Electricity is the lifeline for how these machines operate. An important part of the process is the fact that when a fluctuating current flows down a wire, a magnetic field will form around it. The strength of the magnetic field is affected by the size of the electric current. The bigger the current is, the stronger the magnetic field can be. When the magnetic field fluctuates around the wire, a current can be applied to it. And when a second coil of wire is put around the first, the electric current that gets sent through the first wire will also flow through to the second wire. This creates what is called a primary and secondary current. The wires are then coiled around a soft iron bar which acts as the core and transmits electrical energy more effectively. For this entire process to work correctly, the transformer will need a type of constantly reversing electricity called alternating current (AC) instead of direct current (DC), which will only move in one direction. The transformers themselves can be designed to “step up” or “step down.” According to Electronic Design, step-up transformers will boost a lower voltage into a higher one which speeds up the long-distance distribution. A step-down transformer will reduce the voltage when received at a local distribution station.

What are they used for?

Electric transformers can be used for many industrial and residential purposes, and most importantly, they regulate, stabilize, and distribute power across many long distances. This gets electricity from one destination to another in a fast but safe manner. Triad Magnetics highlights the importance of the use of transformers. They can be used in many forms, from the basic flow of electricity to the inner workings of power stations, automation and industrial processing controls, lighting systems, and medical devices, such as MRI and CAT scan equipment. They are also used in our homes, like with air conditioning, and regulating the amount of power used for our devices, like computers, televisions, and other appliances, such as microwaves and toasters.

Conclusion

We often take our access to electricity for granted, which can lead us to moments of panic or concern when the power goes out in the house, business, or surrounding area. Electricity is what our lives are built on, and our use and reliance on it are integral to our infrastructure. If you have any concerns or inquiries about any services or maintenance, call your trustworthy and helpful Winnipeg electrician, and they will take care of any electrical needs you might have. [/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section]

Congratulations! You’ve just become a homeowner. This experience is incredibly exciting—but it can also be quite daunting. 

There’s a lot to learn about homeownership. You might have questions like: How do you unclog a drain? What about cleaning the eavestroughs? And how much will my utilities cost?

Have you thought about how you’ll manage electricity in your new home? From keeping your bills affordable to preventing overloads, we’ve put together 5 electrical tips for new homeowners:

Locate Your Electrical Panel & Fire Extinguisher

You don’t want to imagine the worst-case scenario: that an electrical circuit could overload and start a fire in your home. But if that happens, it pays to be prepared. 

After you move in, find out where your electrical panel is. This will come in handy if you ever trip a breaker—you’ll use the panel to reset it. 

Your home might have a fuse box instead of a circuit breaker panel. It’s a little trickier to replace a blown fuse; you need to take out the melted fuse and replace it with a new one. 

A fuse box tends to overload more often than a breaker box. Since electrical panels are designed to handle modern electrical loads, consider upgrading your fuse box to a breaker box.

Next, locate the fire extinguisher, and make sure it’s in good condition. Fire extinguishers aren’t just for show—they could potentially save a life. If the fire extinguisher is faulty, be sure to replace it ASAP. 

Check the Outlets

When you toured your home, you probably paid attention to the floors, the layout, and the condition of the roof. We’re willing to bet that you hardly glanced at the electrical outlets. 

Now, it’s time to take a closer look. Check for the following:

• Do the outlets have GFCIs? You can’t undervalue the importance of safety. A GFCI (or ground fault circuit interrupter) prevents outlets from overheating or causing shock injuries by disrupting the electrical flow. They’re especially important in rooms that have water, like a bathroom or laundry room. You can identify them by the two buttons on the outlet: a test button and a reset button. If your home doesn’t have GFCI outlets, consider upgrading to them. 

• Are the outlets warm to the touch? Your outlets should remain at room temperature, no matter how many cords are plugged into them. If they feel warm or hot, it’s a sign that they’re overloaded. You may need to unplug a few appliances or upgrade the electrical capacity of your home.

• Do you need more electrical outlets? Once all your appliances are hooked up, you might find that you’re running out of outlets. You can use a few extension cords or power bars when you’re in a pinch, but do so sparingly—an overloaded power strip can create a fire hazard. 

Remember to Unplug Unused Appliances

Have you heard of vampire power? Even when you shut off your appliances (or put them on standby), they still draw power from your outlets. The result? Wasted electricity and higher hydro bills. Try to get in the habit of unplugging your electronics, devices, and appliances whenever they’re not being used. 

Consider Upgrading the Electrical System

In your new home, you don’t want to worry about faulty outlets, outdated wiring, and fuses that keep blowing. And you don’t have to. The experts at powertec.ca will make sure your new home is designed to meet your electrical needs. To learn more, contact us today.