5 Differences between a Residential and Commercial Electrical Contractor

by Strike Electrical Electrician in Auckland

Be it a residential property or a commercial one, the role of electricity is paramount in both scenarios. It is used to empower our lives by illuminating our homes, running the machinery, moving vehicles, and more.And when it comes to having a fully functional electrical system, there is nothing better than choosing a skilled electrician in Auckland for the job.

In general, there are two types of electricians – a commercial electrician and residential electrician. Both have their own significance, but many times people get confused about them. While a commercial electrician primarily deals in high value commercial electrical projects, a residential electrician looks after the electrical issues commonly found in households. It is not like a commercial expert doesn’t take a residential project, but for a person, it is necessary to understand the difference between these two.

Here are the 5 major differences between a residential and commercial electrician.

1.       Services offered

Residential electrical contractors are held accountable for the installation and maintenance of residential electrical systems by making them safer, compliant, and operational.  This is the reason why they are also known as domestic electricians.

Other accountabilities of residential electricians include:

·         Understanding technical drawings

·         Maintaining and servicing electrical equipment and fixtures

·         Diagnosis and repair of electrical faults

·        Residential electrical systems inspection and electrical rewiring

Commercial electrical contractors, on the other end, are known to perform the same tasks on a larger, more intricate level. This may include installing new wiring systems, equipment, machinery, and control panels in agreement with the approved business designs. They are more likely to be hired in commercial establishments, business avenues, public buildings, factory units, among other places. In general, they’ll manage electrical permitting which is often required in major cities.

2.       Technical skills

Both residential and commercial electrical experts start their journey in a similar fashion by getting the same education and training. In general, they get the same basic and advanced training on electrical systems which is usually common.

However, commercial electrical contractors are meant to possess a much higher skill level and expertise due to the nature of the job which demands high levels of complexity, safety, and reliability.

It’s quite easy to understand that handling three-phase electrical systems ask for more knowledge. Between phase and voltage balancing, phase drawings, and a trace of control systems, a commercial electrician nee higher qualifications (Master Electrician and above) and almost over 4,000 hours of on-the-job experience.

3.       Equipment and supplies utilised

One majorpoint of difference between residential and commercial electrical installations is in the type of power supply these systems are based on. Residential electricians usually handle single-phase systems ranging between 120V-240V.

Commercial electricity is based on a three-phase power supply, and the conductors used transmit nearly 120V to 480V current to meet the high voltage requirements of commercial and industrial electrical pressures.

This variation in power supply simply means that the equipment and supplies used also vary. Residential electrical systems usually need thin gauge cabling with the low level of sheathing and insulation. Given the point that equipment used runs on 120V or 240V, various kinds of wiring, breakers, and other electrical provisions are used.

Industrial electrical installations typically require cables with heavy insulation and sheathing capabilities to manage tough commercial applications. These can be inclusive of higher voltage and current flow which are meant to work round the clock.

Besides the load and safety specifications, commercial electrical systems are designed in such a way to become readily accessible in case of a fiasco. They are found to trip more often and need more maintenance, which is why most are installed in easily reachable places with control panels for quick troubleshooting.

4.       Project Scope

Commercial electrical projects are certainly much bigger as compared to residential projects. From commercial setups to malls, and shopping complexes, these are projects that need more personnel, time, and ability to manage. This obviously leads to more overheads.

Residential projects, on the other hand, are of a low scale and usually require one or two electricians for the job. This kind of service can be availed at much lower rates and the scope of bargaining is quite high.

5.       Compliance requirements

Though compliance requirements may not play a big role in the case of residential electrical setups, their importance is paramount in commercial installations. These requirements may include safety standards controlling the kind of electrical equipment to be used, safety standards they should comply with, and the level of protection taken against probable disasters caused by electrical mistakes.

Conclusion

Though both a residential electrician and commercial electrician work in the same fashion, the major difference lies in the project scope, type of equipment used, compliance, skills required, and others.

For any of your residential or commercial electrical job in Auckland, you may contact the experts at Strike Electricals. For better information, or to know more about our electrical services, visit our website today.

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Created on Oct 19th 2021 07:15. Viewed 293 times.

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