Commercial Electrical Installation requires a more complex setup than residential buildings. They also need to be regularly inspected and maintained to comply with standards and regulations.
Commercial wiring begins with the main electrical panel that distributes power throughout the building. It includes circuit breakers, outlets, and switches. Lighting systems and emergency equipment are then installed.
Whether you’re looking to rewire your home or install a complete electrical system for a new commercial project, our skilled team can help. We start by conducting a detailed assessment of the existing wiring and layout to determine the scope of the work. This includes identifying types of wiring, such as aluminum or knob and tube, which require special handling to maintain safety standards. It also involves understanding your current and future electrical needs and determining what needs to be upgraded or replaced.
Our initial assessment and planning also includes reviewing local electrical codes and regulations. Compliance with these standards is non-negotiable, and can significantly impact costs. Additional costs include permit fees, inspections, and any upgrades or modifications required to meet code requirements.
Once the assessment and planning stage is completed, we can begin the actual rewiring process. Most rewiring projects require the power to be turned off during the rewiring, which means your business will have to close for a few days. To minimize disruptions, Hoffer Electric will plan the work carefully and communicate with you throughout the project.
We always prioritize safety and follow strict safety and OSHA standards during the installation process. This ensures that our electricians are fully prepared to address any issues, and can work safely in high-risk situations. This includes wearing appropriate personal protective equipment and using lockout/tagout procedures to de-energize all electrical systems before working on them.
Design
Electrical wiring plays a crucial role in commercial buildings, and it’s essential that these electrical systems comply with safety regulations and code requirements. It’s also important that they meet the needs and requirements of each building type.
Commercial buildings are generally larger and more complex than residential properties, which necessitates detailed planning and intricate design processes. This includes the use of different types of wires to accommodate varying power demands and unique equipment needs. It’s also common to incorporate electrical components that promote efficiency and help reduce energy costs, such as lighting controls, energy-efficient appliances, and advanced power management systems.
The electrical load in a commercial building is typically lower than that of an industrial setting, but it still requires substantial power for lighting, heating and cooling, office equipment, and more. In addition, many commercial buildings house heavy machinery and automated production lines that require specific power requirements.
Commercial electrical wiring systems are usually based on raceway or conduit electric wiring, which are enclosed channels that protect and route wires in buildings and other structures. These channels can be made from different materials, including metals. Rigid metal conduit (RMC) is a heavy-duty option that has a thick zinc exterior coating, while intermediate metal conduit (IMC) and flexible metal conduit (FMC) offer thinner, corrosion-resistant alternatives.
Installation
Commercial electrical installations are complex and costly, so it’s important to consider all the options available. Cost-saving methods include using standard products, streamlining the wiring process, and incorporating smart technology into systems that allow property managers to monitor and optimise electricity usage. It’s also worth discussing the use of solar panels as a cost-effective power source and implementing energy-efficient lighting solutions that can significantly reduce operating costs.
The installation of a commercial electrical system starts with the main electrical panel, which acts as the central hub for power distribution within a building. Electricians then run wiring throughout the space, following pre-planned routes and securing cables to prevent damage. They then install switches, outlets, and lighting fixtures, including energy-efficient options. They may also install junction boxes and conduit pipes to protect and organise wiring.
Commercial electricians must comply with strict safety regulations when installing these systems. This helps minimise the risk of electrical accidents and fire hazards in commercial spaces.
As sustainability becomes more of a focus for businesses, the electrical systems in commercial buildings are evolving to incorporate more eco-friendly features. This includes the use of LED lighting, which uses up to 50% less energy than traditional bulbs, as well as energy-saving appliances and equipment that can save a significant amount on utility bills. Smart technology is also becoming more popular, allowing organisations to monitor and optimise their energy usage in real-time.
Testing
A commercial electrical installation must be inspected regularly to ensure that all wiring and equipment is safe. This inspection must be done by a qualified electrician and is known as an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report).
Commercial properties need to be inspected much more frequently than domestic homes. For instance, offices and shops typically need to undergo EICRs every five years, while rental properties must have an inspection at each change of tenancy.
The EICR process involves a detailed examination of the property, testing all components and evaluating the electrical system as a whole. This includes polarity and RCD testing to confirm that all connections are working correctly, insulation resistance testing to verify that the building’s insulation can resist electricity within safe limits, continuity and functional tests and earth fault loop impedance testing.
All these tests help identify faulty circuits, overloaded outlets and other issues that can cause serious problems. If left unchecked, these issues can lead to property fires, a loss of business due to electrical outages and even legal consequences as businesses must comply with safety regulations to protect their employees, customers and other visitors. Promptly fixing and upgrading medium to high risk defects identified in the EICR helps minimise these risks. It also makes the business premises safer and increases the reliability of the electrical systems, helping save money and reducing disruptions. The inspector will then compile a comprehensive report detailing all observations, test results and classifications of the findings as well as any recommendations for remedial work.
Inspection
Once your electrical systems are fitted, they need to be tested and evaluated. This is known as the inspection stage, and it’s carried out by a qualified electrician who will be able to produce an EICR (Electrical Installation Certificate). An EICR is a safety document that certifies your commercial electrics are fit for purpose and comply with BS 7671 regulations.
Inspectors typically look at a variety of things during an electrical inspection. They will check that the wiring follows pre-planned routes and is secured in place to prevent damage. They will also test the current ratings, splices and terminations to ensure they meet the required standards. They will also verify that the proper number of circuits are installed, especially in kitchens where dedicated circuits for appliances are essential to avoid overloading.
Commercial electrical inspections are vital to protecting your business. They identify safety hazards and code violations, and can help you avoid costly repairs in the future. They can even save you money on energy bills by identifying issues that could be causing your system to overwork. This will allow you to make changes that increase efficiency and reduce costs. Additionally, they can help you improve the long-term functionality of your electrical system by identifying any potential problems that may require an upgrade. They can also recommend smart technology that will prepare your property for the future. They will also use lockout/tagout procedures to ensure that any electrical equipment is de-energized before maintenance or repair work can be performed.
Maintenance
Whether your commercial property is an office, retail space, warehouse, or industrial facility, proper electrical systems are essential for business operations. However, these systems are often complex and require specialized expertise to install and maintain safely and efficiently. Working with licensed professionals helps to ensure that your commercial electrical system meets national and local safety standards and passes required inspections.
Commercial electrical services include installation, maintenance, and upgrades of commercial properties’ wiring. They help to minimise risk, maximise efficiency, and reduce downtime due to electrical issues. These services may also involve incorporating energy-efficient solutions like LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and programmable thermostats, to lower electricity usage and costs.
Regular maintenance helps to prevent issues before they occur, ensuring that your business runs smoothly and efficiently. This can include resetting circuit breakers that trip due to overloading, replacing worn-out light bulbs, and checking that outlets are functioning properly. During these checks, electricians can identify and address any potential problems.