Since the first discovery of electricity, human life cannot be separated from its existence. Its ability to facilitate human work makes it an inseparable part of everyday life.
In order to provide optimum benefits in your life, it is better if you also know what electrical appliances used in your home and their functions. That way you will understand more and be able to maximize its functions while avoiding the potential dangers it causes.
Here are some types of electrical equipment and their functions:
1. Electrical Outlet
An electrical outlet or socket is a device in the wall of your home that can plug electrical appliances into a power source. Each country has a type of socket with a different type, frequency, and voltage.
2. Power Plug
A power plug is a device that serves to provide a power source to an electric socket. The power plug is easy to use by simply connecting the plug to two socket outlets. There are also various types of power plugs on the market.
3. Electrical Switch
Its function is slightly different from the socket, which is to cut off and connect electricity, so that electrical devices such as lights or water pumps are easier to turn off, rather than disconnecting them through the socket.
4. Light Fittings
Another name for a light fitting is a lamp holder or housing. Serves as a power source and holds the lamp in the desired position.
There are also various types of light fittings on the market. Before using it, pay attention to the electrical circuit, whether series or parallel.
5. Electricity Meter
An electricity meter or KWH meter is one of the type of electrical measuring instrument, which measures the power consumption you use. In every house there must be this tool.
You can view your electricity bill or remaining electricity balance using this equipment. There are several types of KWH meters, namely prepaid, postpaid, and export-import meters if you also use electrical panels as alternative energy.
6. Fuse
It will be dangerous if suddenly the power supply voltage rises. That’s why a fuse is needed that will cut off electricity when there is a power surge. The number of fuses needed can be more, if it has a large power.
7. Lamp Ballast
The use of ballast is used as a counterweight as well as regulating the electric current that enters the lamp to make it more stable and avoid damage.
You can use it by attaching it to the lampshade or using a holder located adjacent to the lamp.
8. Power Cord
Its function is to deliver current from a power source to an electrical device. Usually made of copper coated with rubber or plastic insulators.
To make it more durable, this cable is coated with a PVC pipe so that it doesn’t peel off, be eaten by rats, or damaged by weather disturbances when placed in an outdoor space.
9. Roll Extension Cable
Just like a power cord, it’s just that this device is made to be easier to move and can reach more distant areas. The price varies greatly depending on the length of the cable and its quality.
However, do not put too many extension cords in the socket, as this can cause an overcurrent which can cause a short circuit and fire.
10. Grounding
This tool serves as a safety when there is an excess of electricity and distributes it into the ground so that it is neutral to prevent short circuits. Usually placed near the meter so that it can be seen easily.
This connection also limits the build-up of static electricity which is dangerous when near flammable objects or devices that are sensitive to the presence of electrostatic electricity.
11. MCB
MCB or Miniature Circuit Breaker is a device similar to a fuse that is useful for breaking excess current. This tool is made of metal which will be cut off when the electric current is too large or when there is a short circuit / electrical short circuit.
MCBs are better than fuses, because they can still be reused. Only need to turn the switch off or on for circuit isolation. Since the conductors are housed in a plastic casing, the MCB is much safer to use and operate.
12. Multi Plug
Multi plug is several sockets that are combined into one to make it more practical. As long as the use is not excessive, this tool is safe to use. However, if used with many other multi plugs, it can cause a short circuit.