Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1502328
Architecture & Design | 31 I t is priceless to know that your family is protected against the hazards posed by electrical faults due to overloads and short circuits. With the correct use of an MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker), the electrical circuit would automatically trip off should there be a fault. Once the fault is corrected, supply can be restored in a simple way so everyday life can proceed as before. MCBs come in various AMP ratings and unlike fuses, MCBs are resettable. These small components, which are planned for and wired by a qualified electrician, can be lifesaving as short circuit can be the culprit of a house fire. An RCD, commonly known as the 'Salvavita', is a sensitive safety device that switches off electricity automatically if there is an earth leakage fault. This life-saving device is designed to prevent a fatal electric shock when in contact with direct voltage, such as a bare wire or a faulty appliance. RCDs offer a level of personal protection that ordinary fuses and circuit-breakers cannot provide. According to the law, you must have a 30mA RCD installed in your main distribution box as it provides the highest level of protection against earth leakages for all the wiring and sockets on a circuit, and any connected appliances. In recent years, RCBOs (Residual Current Breaker with Over-Current) were introduced to gradually replace MCBs for final circuits. As the name suggests, it protects against two types of faults and in essence, combines the functionality of an MCB and RCD previously mentioned. The main advantage of RCBOs is having a dedicated protection for all types of Electrical Faults for each circuit – hence the remaining circuits are not interrupted should there be a fault. An 'Over and Under Voltage Protection' was legally introduced in Malta around three years ago. In Malta there are different types of power generations; the power station, interconnector to Europe's main grid and solar panels, thus the supply voltage is not always stable. The OVR will trip should the base voltage of 230V varies by +/- 10% and restores automatically as soon as supply voltage is corrected. Over or under voltage will damage all your electrical appliances from a simple light bulb to that very expensive appliance you invested in. Last but not least, a Surge Protection device is highly recommended in your household, and most insurance companies request this for your home insurance. This device protects your appliances from voltage surges produced by lightning strikes. It offers an alternative route to the surge where it is then discharged to ground. A single unit will protect your entire house. Electricity is vital, but if there appears to be a problem with your home's electrical system, then do not attempt to resolve the issue yourself. Reach out to highly skilled and certified electricians to identify the problem and provide an effective solution. Make your home safer for loved ones with Schneider Electric technology, a world-leading brand renowned for reliable, efficient and intuitive technologies that help enhance living spaces and the lifestyles of their occupants. The safety you deserve. electrIcAl SAFety At hOMe