Utility companies are always looking for ways to make their product safer, more cost-effective, and sustainable. Despite these measures, there are still some risks to consider since electricity can be dangerous when there is too much voltage at too high of a current. Therefore, being able to identify any excessive voltage in an area can help detect areas that can be dangerous for utility workers or problematic for homeowners. These measures can also help to maintain and protect resources and keep costs down for all consumers. For any utility company, it’s important to look for ways to improve operations, and using a voltage detection service is one of those ways.
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1- Detect Hidden Voltage Faults
One of the most dangerous parts of working on power lines for a utility company is the possibility of coming in contact with a live wire. The jolt of electricity from a high-voltage fault is strong enough to cause serious injury or death. While there are built-in precautions to prevent this type of accidental casualty, it can be impossible to identify a live circuit or conductor in every situation, particularly underground. A voltage detector can help protect workers by identifying spots where the voltage is exceptionally high to ensure that they can begin work safely.
While built-in mechanisms can catch some of these dangers, a mobile voltage detector is the best for identifying hidden underground contact faults. These machines are the most sensitive and easiest to maneuver to check all areas of concern.
2- Increase Safety in Homes
A voltage detector is most efficient at maintaining safety for the customers along the service lines. The voltage carried by transformers is significantly higher than what is required to run household appliances, and therefore it is important to keep household lines at the standard voltage of 110 to 240 volts. Additionally, at this strength, a person is unlikely to be killed if they are shocked by an outlet or appliance within their home.
With voltage detection, the utility company can quickly detect and rectify any voltage surges in order to prevent a safety concern or incident. A voltage detector will help ensure that the amount carried into each home is within the target range and safe for all inside.
3- Save Money and Resources
When more voltage than is necessary is passed from the main transformer to the individual power lines, it can waste resources on all sides. For the houses closest to the transformer where the current is strongest, they can risk blowing a fuse or overpowering their appliances. This can lead to appliances no longer working properly or damaging them completely, forcing an additional cost to the consumer and dissatisfaction with the business. For all houses, if more voltage than necessary is transferred in, they will overpay for the amount that they actually require to run their household electricity and appliances.
The utility company will also waste energy and resources when the voltage is not properly metered from the transformers to the individual home lines. Voltage detection can alert to any problems with excessive voltage being transferred so that it can be quickly rectified.