elecglossary

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Glossary
Below are definitions for some standard terminology in the electrician business.

Circuit Breakers / Fuses: Devices installed in the service panel of a home to limit the flow of electrical current
through   a circuit. The breaker rating determines the maximum flow. The size is determined by the size of the
wire which makes up the circuit. It's purpose is to prevent fires due to overloaded (and therefore overheated)
circuits.

Code Corrections: Procedure designed to eliminate wiring conditions that do not meet National Electrical Code
requirements and safety conditions.

Distribution Equipment: A device designed to provide electricity to multiple connections.

Energy Saving Devices: Devices utilized within a dwelling designed to more efficiently make use of energy
sources while providing heating, cooling, and light.

Load Center: Source for all power to the home. All circuits originate from the "Load Center" or "Service
Panel." Circuit breakers are located within this panel.

Low Voltage: A wiring system that provides power to some electronic devices operating on a voltage level
much lower than the standard 110 volts. Such devices might be doorbells and thermostats.
.
Receptacles: Power sources located throughout a building to provide electricity where needed.

Smoke And Carbon Dioxide Detectors: Wall and ceiling mounted sensors located throughout the home used
to alert occupants of deadly gases and smoke inside the home.

Switches: Circuit interruption devices used to control the flow of electricity to lights, appliances, and outlets.

Thermostat: An electronic switching device that monitors temperatures inside the home and turns
on and off the heating or cooling system in the home.

Track And Accent Lighting: Condition specific lighting that meets special lighting requirements, providing
variable lighting degrees of light and may distribute light in multiple directions.

Transfer Switch: An electronic device that under certain conditions will disconnect from one power source
and connect to another power source.

Wiring: A distribution network of wire that conducts electricity to receptacles, switches and appliances
throughout a building/home to provide electricity where needed.