Residential and commercial electrical systems are more different than you might expect at first glance. Commercial systems tend to be larger, sure, but they’re also more complex; they’re often wired differently than residential systems.

There’s a lot of information to cover, so we’re going to get down to brass tacks in just a moment. Before we do, though, it’s important to note that some “commercial” businesses are wired with residential wiring—it depends on the building that they’re in and the kinds of services they offer. 

Generally, commercial power is reserved for office buildings, large retail stores and malls, and even large residential buildings like apartment buildings.

With that in mind, let’s dive into the differences between residential and commercial electrical systems:

Single-Phase Vs. Three-Phase Power

In North America, residential and small commercial buildings are powered by what are known as single-phase systems—more specifically, split-phase or single-phase three-wire systems. That’s a complicated way of saying that our homes are powered by two hot wires and one neutral wire.

Commercial businesses, on the other hand, are powered by three-phase systems featuring three hot wires and a single neutral wire. This allows these businesses to power large HVAC systems and other powerful motors, all while still enabling them to run 120 V electricity to power computers and other small appliances.

Voltage Levels & Electrical Load

Most residential properties use 120 V for most of their outlets and 240 V for larger outlets. Commercial buildings, on the other hand, will use much higher voltage levels—up to 600 V! These high voltage levels are used to power large motors and some industrial machines.

As you can imagine, the load of commercial buildings is also typically much higher than that of residential systems. A typical residential electrical system will be a 100 amp to 200 amp service—enough for modern electrical needs.

Commercial power supplies, on the other hand, can range from 200 amp to 1000 amp services. 

This means that while commercial and residential electricians both have to deal with a range of different services, residential electricians typically only need to worry about 120 V-240 V outlets and 100-200 amp systems. Commercial electricians work on a much broader range of different electrical systems. 

Safety Requirements & Energy Management

Both residential and commercial electricians must meet strict safety requirements when working on electrical services. The safety requirements and emergency systems involved with both of these systems can be, however, quite different.

Generally, commercial properties (especially large commercial buildings) have much more stringent safety requirements than residential electrical systems. This makes sense—there are more people in a commercial building, and there’s more power running through these systems.

As such, a commercial building may have emergency backup power systems and complex fire suppression systems. 

In a similar vein, commercial contractors will typically install power management systems to help business owners monitor and reduce their energy costs. The cost of installing these systems is typically more affordable and provides more benefits to business owners than it does to homeowners. 

Different Electricians for Different Buildings

Both residential and commercial electricians have highly specialized jobs—it’s important to hire a commercial electrician for a commercial building and a residential electrician for a residential building.

We hope this article has helped you understand why—truly, we’re just scratching the surface.

Whether you need commercial electricians or residential electricians, we’re here for you. At Powertec Electric, we have electricians in Winnipeg who are highly trained and specialized to take on whatever task you have for them. Call us today. 

WINNIPEG, MB:  Powertec Electric, an industry-leading provider of electrician services in Winnipeg, is eagerly anticipating the launch of its new business website.  Located at 1433 Erin St, the company looks forward to providing customers with an updated user experience and access to more online services and information.  

Powertec was founded in 2012 and has been serving the community ever since.  With a current team of more than 70 qualified and experienced electricians, it has built a well-earned reputation for gold-standard electrical work that is timely, fairly priced, and completed to the highest standards.  Residential, commercial, and industrial jobs all fall within Powertec’s portfolio and the company even has a division dedicated to solar installations (Powertec Solar).  Some of Powertec’s most popular services include service upgrades, knob and tube removal, home and office renovations, lighting solutions, emergency services, home EV charging stations, tenant flip-ups, telephone, data, and television cabling, and much more.  

But what Powertec Electric owner, Daniel Hartley, believes really sets the company apart is the fact that its clients truly come first.  “We get the job done, and we don’t just meet expectations—we exceed them!” he says.  “Our customers keep coming back because we’re dependable, knowledgeable, and pleasant to work with.”  

Hartley feels that one important aspect of good customer service is providing customers with a positive online experience.  For this reason, he has invested in the creation of a new and updated website for Powertec Electric.  Though the launch date is still uncertain, the site should be up and running before summertime.  It will include new features and information that will help Powertec customers navigate more easily to find exactly what they’re looking for.

To get a quote free quote for an upcoming electrical project or for more information about Powertec Electric and the services it provides, visit https://www.powertec.ca.  

 

Most people know when they need an electrician’s help, but what kind of electrician do you need? Residential and commercial electricians have different specialties when it comes to the more technical aspects of the trade, and there are also some differences in where they work and even when they work. 

If you want to learn more about the differences between a residential electrician and a commercial electrician, here’s everything you should know: 

Where They Work

As you may have already guessed, the main difference between a residential electrician and a commercial electrician is where they work. Residential electricians work in homes, whether that means new construction or existing homes. They may do their work on a vacant property, but oftentimes they work while a family is residing in the home. 

Commercial electricians work in businesses or on construction sites for new properties slated for commercial use. They may work inside an operating business, but most business owners don’t want their electricity jeopardized during working hours. As a result, commercial electricians often work in the early morning hours or late evening hours. 

Technical Skills

There’s a major difference between residential and commercial electricians when it comes to the technical skills that they use daily. Both are required to have a high school diploma or GED and an apprenticeship in the field they want to work in. This is designed to prepare them for the most common aspects of work that they’ll encounter. 

One of the primary differences between them is the voltages they must work with. Residential properties typically have lower voltage systems ranging from 120 to 240 volts. On the other hand, a commercial property has extra high voltage with some properties exceeding 240 volts in their electrical systems. 

The wiring systems used in both residential and commercial properties are also a bit different. In a residential property, the wiring system is smaller, is covered with plastic sheathing, and is often tucked out of view of the homeowner. Sometimes, they may have to access the electrical system through the crawl space in the basement. 

Commercial properties have larger systems that utilize tube conduits. They aren’t as likely to have to access it through crawl spaces, though it may still be hidden out of plain sight. Commercial electricians may also be required to work with backup generators for certain types of businesses like major retail outlets or hospitals. While some homeowners do have their homes hooked up to a backup power source, this is far less common than it is for commercial properties. 

Finding the Right Electrician

When you require an electrician of any kind, you need to know who to call. Powertec Electric Inc. has a great team of experienced electricians in Winnipeg who can help you with both residential and commercial properties. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can help you with your next major project or maintenance needs! 

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It’s no secret: gas-powered cars contribute to climate change. If you’re looking to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, switching to an electric car is more affordable than ever.

Did you know that you can save a substantial amount of money when you buy an electric car in Canada? That’s right: there are several federal and provincial programs that reduce the total cost of electric cars.

By changing the way we drive, we can all do our part to stop climate change. Here’s how you can get an electric car rebate in Canada:

The Federal Rebate

All Canadians can use the iZEV rebate (which stands for Incentives for Zero Emission Vehicles) to receive up to $5,000 toward the purchase of an electric vehicle. Here’s how it works.

Basically, any car that can run without producing tailpipe emissions will qualify. Even if the vehicle isn’t fully electric (like a hybrid electric vehicle), it can still qualify, as long as it can run without using an internal combustion engine.

Zero emission vehicles include the following:

• Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
• Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles
• Battery-electric vehicles

Depending on the type of electric vehicle you purchase, you’ll be eligible for a different incentive amount. A long-range EV is eligible for $5,000 (battery capacity is at least 15 kWh), while a short range EV is eligible for $2,500 (battery capacity is less than 15 kWh).

To ensure that your purchase qualifies for this incentive program, it needs to meet a few criteria: 

First, you must purchase or lease a new vehicle. Used vehicles are not eligible. One exception to this rule is if you purchase a demonstrator vehicle; you can still receive an electric car rebate, as long as the vehicle has an odometer reading of less than 10,000 km. 

If you decide to lease the vehicle, you must lease it for at least 12 months. The length of the lease will determine how much of the rebate you’ll receive. Lease a vehicle for 48 months, and you’ll receive the full incentive; but lease it for just 24 months, and you’ll receive only half of the incentive. 

The purchase price is another important factor. If you’re buying a vehicle with six or less seats, the MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) must be less than $45,000. However, if you want a higher-price verison of that specific vehicle, the MSRP can be as much as $55,000.

For vehicles with seven or more seats, the MSRP must be less than $55,000. Or, you can purchase a higher-priced version of that car for up to $60,000.

Which Electric Vehicles are Eligible?

To see a complete list of eligible vehicles for the iZEV program, click here. This list is updated regularly, so be sure to check back often.

How Do I Apply for the iZEV Program?

Getting your federal rebate is easy; there’s no paperwork involved on your end, and the rebate is applied directly at the point of sale. The dealership applies the incentive to the bill of sale, after taxes and fees are calculated. Then, it’s up to the dealer to submit paperwork that reimburses them for the incentive. 

Electric Vehicle Rebates in Each Province & Territory

Depending on where you live, there may be additional rebates that you can apply for. Most of these provincial rebates can be combined with the iZEV program, saving you even more money. Here’s an overview of the provincial rebate programs across Canada:

Manitoba

At this time, there are no provincial rebates in Manitoba. However, all Manitoba residents can apply for the iZEV program.

British Columbia

The government of British Columbia is actively encouraging residents to switch to electric vehicles with these excellent rebates. In BC, you may qualify for the following programs:

• SCRAP-IT: Get rid of your gas-powered vehicle, and you’ll receive a rebate that you can use toward the purchase of an electric vehicle. You can receive up to $6,000.
• Home charger rebate: Homeowners in British Columbia can receive a maximum of $350 to cover the cost of installing and purchasing Level 2 charging equipment. 
• CleanBC Go Electric Vehicle Rebate Program: Get up to $3,000 when you buy a new zero emission vehicle in BC.

Prince Edward Island

Looking for an incentive program in PEI? The government of Prince Edward Island has an electric vehicle incentive that’s similar to the federal one. Residents can receive up to $5,000 on a new/used EV, or $2,500 for a hybrid.

New Brunswick

With the Plug-In NB program, New Brunswick residents can receive rebates for electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and home charging stations. It applies to the same models of vehicles as the federal program. 

Saskatchewan 

Currently, there is no specific rebate in Saskatchewan for EVs. Make sure to ask your dealership about the federal rebate. 

Quebec

This province has one of the most generous rebate programs in the country. New EV purchases qualify for up to $8,000 (as long as the cost is under $60,000), and used EV purchases up to $4,000.

Yukon

Save money when you drive an electric vehicle in this territory with the Yukon government rebate program, which gives up to $5,000 off a new EV.

Ontario

Plug’n Drive offers two incentives to those in Ontario: a used EV incentive, which grants $1,000 for purchasing a used electric vehicle, and a scrappage incentive, which provides $1,000 when you recycle a gas vehicle.

Nova Scotia

Check out the Electrify Nova Scotia Rebate Program. You could qualify for a $3,000 rebate on a new electric vehicle (and $2,000 for a used one). 

Newfoundland & Labrador 

When you buy a new EV in this province, you can receive $2,500 toward your purchase. 

Interested in a Home EV Charging Station?

Now that you’ve got a brand new electric vehicle, you need somewhere to charge the battery. Why not add a charging station to your garage? Home EV chargers in Winnipeg ensure that your car is always ready to go. 

At Powertec Electric, we can help with that. We’re a ChargePoint partner; we also install Tesla and Porsche chargers. To receive a free quote for your installation, contact us today.

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Shopping for a new car? Now’s the time to switch to an electric vehicle. 

More and more Canadians are scrapping their gas-guzzling cars for electric ones. EVs reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and allow you to save money on rising gas prices. Even better, there are excellent rebates available for EV purchases in Canada. 

Once you’ve chosen the electric vehicle that you want, the next step is installing your home EV charging station. You can plug your electric car into your home charging station whenever you need to fill the battery. Not only is it more convenient, but you’ll be  saving money with each recharge.

Here’s the great thing about installing an EV charger: you only pay for it once. With a gas-powered vehicle, you pay for gas each time you need to stop and fill up on fuel. Electricity is a lot less expensive than gas (and it’s better for the environment, too).

So, how much will your home EV charger cost you? When you’re calculating the cost of your EV charging station, you need to consider:

• The level of charger (1, 2, or 3)
• The current electrical capacity of your home
• The type of charger (for your specific EV model)
• The labour involved in the installation

We’re going to break down the cost of installing electric vehicle supply equipment in your home:

Levels of EV Chargers

First, you need to decide which level of EV charger you want. Your charger options include:

• Level 1: These come standard with most electric cars. Since these chargers can be used with any 110 volt outlet, you won’t need to call an electrician to upgrade your electrical systems. But with a Level 1 charger, it can take 1-2 days to completely charge your vehicle. Even if you leave your car plugged in overnight, you might not have enough battery to get through your day. 
• Level 2: Looking for a faster charging solution for your home? Then a Level 2 EV charging station is what you need. They can completely charge your car within 2-5 hours. All Level 2 chargers require a 240 volt outlet. 
• Level 3: Level 3 charging stations aren’t often used for residential purposes; they’re more suitable for commercial use, like at a public charging station or large housing complex (an apartment or condo building).

So, which level of EV charger is best to install in your home? We recommend Level 2. It provides fast charging times for busy homeowners. If you don’t have all day to wait for your car to charge, a Level 2 charging station will be ideal for your home. You can use a Level 2 charger to power your car in just a few hours. 

While Level 3 chargers are faster, they often require a second electric panel to support the 480 volt plug. Most homeowners can refuel in good time with a Level 2 charging station.

Types of EV Chargers

When you’re choosing an electric vehicle charging station, there are two main types: ones that plug into a wall outlet, and ones that are hardwired into an electrical circuit. We’re going to explain the differences between them:

A Level 2 plug-in charger connects to a 240 volt electrical outlet. Since they can be plugged into the wall, they’re easy to install and remove. An electrician can upgrade an existing 110 volt outlet to a 240 volt. If you’re looking for a portable unit that can plug into an outlet, consider a plug-in charger. 

On the other hand, a hardwired charger hooks up directly to an electrical circuit. It’s wired directly to your home, so it’s not removable or portable. These EV chargers are best for outdoor use. 

If you’re interested in a Level 2 charger, you can choose a plug-in (portable) or hardwired charger. We’ll help you install the right EV charger for your home; if you require a service upgrade for your breaker box, we can take care of that, too.

Other Factors that Affect Installation Costs

The total cost of home electric vehicle chargers can vary based on a few factors. One is the location of your charger. Do you want it installed inside an attached garage, or outdoors? Typically, you can save money by installing the outlet directly in your garage (especially if you already have a 240 volt outlet there).

If you live in an older home, it may not have the electrical capacity to supply the amperage your EV charger needs. Upgrading your electrical system will ensure safer and faster charging times. You may need to acquire a permit before you can do so.

For any Level 2 charger, you’ll need to upgrade a regular outlet to a 240 volt one. Otherwise, you risk overloading the breaker box. When you need electrical service, always work with a licenced electrician. 

We Install Home Charging Stations!

At Powertec Electric, we’re certified charging station installers. We sell EV chargers installed in an attached garage for an average cost of $1999. They range from $700-$1000 to purchase, with an additional fee for labour and installation.

Depending on which model of electric vehicle you purchase, you might have some flexibility with the charging station you choose. A few popular models of EV chargers that we install include:

• ChargePoint: These EV chargers are Energy Star certified, making them highly efficient and eco-friendly. Monitor your battery levels via the app. On your smartphone, you can check the power status of your car at any time. 
• Tesla: Tesla vehicles are designed to be used with their brand of charging equipment; if you want to use a different type of charger, you’ll need an adaptor. With a Tesla charger, your car battery will be charged faster than with another charger.
• Porsche: These chargers are optimal for all electric Porsche vehicles. Using the Porsche Connect app, you can control and monitor the charging process.

Our licenced electricians can install an EV charging station in your home. If you don’t already have a 240 volt outlet for your Level 2 car charger, we’ll set one up for you. 

The true cost of a home EV charger will vary based on your specific needs. Looking for a quote? At Powertec Electric, we can install the optimal setup for your electric vehicle. To learn more, contact us today.