AC problems and working with your electric utility

[cleeds]

Problems with electric service have been mentioned in several threads here, so I thought it made sense to create a thread just for that topic. My house had awful AC service when I first moved in years ago (95VAC, believe it or not), and it took me quite a while to get it corrected. Here a few tidbits of info I learned along the way (and please note much of this applies only to the US):

Nominal voltage is 120VAC. Of course, there's a tolerance, which may vary by state but is typically around 5 percent, so you should be around 114VAC to 126VAC.

Current is as important as voltage. If you think your 200A service panel means the utility can provide 200A of service, you're almost certainly mistaken. That rating simply means that the panel can safely distribute that amount of current. Determining current delivery is done with a "Beast of Burden" test that - as far as I know - can really only be done by the utility itself. That's because it's best tested in the meter pan. (The utility isn't responsible for whatever happens to your power after it enters your house.)

Your electric utility is regulated by a state agency such as a Board of Public Utilities. That agency sets the standards with which the utility must comply. If you're having issues and the utility isn't responsive, it may be effective to file a written complaint with the regulatory agency. That worked miracles for me.

Utilities don't care about audiophiles or about our systems. Don't mention your high power amplifiers unless they first ask why the matter is of concern to you.

Document everything. Ask the utility to install a voltage recorder to measure and document your service. If they refuse, or if you doubt their veracity, a good electrical contractor can provide the service.

Your utility employs humans, not robots. It is of no value to treat these people with disrespect; they are usually just trying to do their jobs, and often under difficult circumstances. If you have service problems, have patience. Over time, they can often be persuaded to become your advocate.

Be persistent and ask questions. Electric distribution systems are dynamic. Utilities often change circuits to balance loads, and to accommodate increased (or decreased) demand and changes to substations. Your service may be fine today, but tomorrow you may be on a new circuit entirely. The more you know about your service, the more quickly you'll resolve problems. Check your voltage periodically.

Your best friends in your electric utility are the lineworkers. They often know more about about your neighborhood service than anyone, including the engineer responsible for the system. If you see a truck in your neighborhood, it's wise to stop and chat with them. I have found them to be remarkably candid and if you're having issues, they can often direct you to the person who has the authority to resolve the problem. You're not likely to get satisfaction from the toll-free number; those people just aren't knowledgeable about our types of concerns.

If you plan to install dedicated lines, file for a construction permit. This may not be required by your town (although it often is), but your local electrical inspector can be another advocate if you're having issues, and will also ensure that work is done correctly.

There's a lot of misinformation in audio groups about power. That's especially true when the topic of grounds arise which - for some unknown reason - is something some audiophiles consider a "magic cure." In particular, the use of "dedicated grounds" is widely misunderstood and often leads to an unsafe installation. Here's an important detail that's in the NEC: All grounds must be bonded with the neutral at the service panel. No exceptions.

This is not a definitive list. I know we have some real experts on this here - such as Dan, as I recall - so I hope they chime in with their own wisdom.

[Higgens]

Great post. Thank you.

[cleeds]

You are welcome! I'm hoping this thread can become a resource for others.

[clpetersen]

Nice post. Thank you.

[keef]

I have a summer cottage that constantly gets power surges where the lights dim. I have thought about persuing this with the utility. It doesn’t seem to affect electronics but it is annoying. Thanks for the info...

[cleeds]

Originally Posted by keef

I have a summer cottage that constantly gets power surges where the lights dim. I have thought about persuing this with the utility ...

Have you checked the wiring in the cottage? Are connections tight in the service panel and in the receptacles? If you're not qualified to check this, an electrician might be your best first step, if you haven't done that already.

[Masterlu]

I went through all the red tape, and expense in getting my own dedicated transformers for each of my homes. I did this primarily because my desire was for 1,000 Amp residential service. Each home was built with 400 Amp service.

This was especially difficult in Cape Cod, MA.

[Daudio1]

When I upgraded my electrical service (100A breaker box) in my 1920 era home, I was lucky to find a contractor staffed with ex-public utility technicians. (happened to be doing some contract programming for the utility, so had some contacts...)

They were able to properly and easily handle the, at least, 3 different 'strata' of wiring types found throughout my home, and good grounding, while adding a dedicated line for my audio/video, and a 220 line for a larger AC unit.

So if you are looking for a contractor for your home electrical work, check for one with a lot of ex-utility guys, to insure quality knowledge and work, IMO.

Dave

[Masterlu]

Daudio1... Welcome to AA!