Different Types Of Electrical Testing

Electricians who undergo the electrical testing will follow the electrical Wiring Rules and carry out the electrical work safely. There are numerous different tests that are involved in the electrical service but there are a few common ones often performed. 

Earth and Ground System Testing

Earthing or grounding systems work to direct electrical currents towards the earth or a ground position. This means that the voltage often caused by surges or spikes will safely be stopped at a certain point. They are extremely important in preventing people or appliances from being damaged or hurt from dangerous electrical situations.

The best ways an experienced electrician will test earthing and grounding units are by:

• Three-point resistance test – measuring the resistance of certain earth grids through using currents.
• Loop impedance test – utilising a meter to test impedance levels of a specific circuit. 
• Soil resistance test – testing the resistance levels of the soil where the earthing system is positioned. 
• Continuity test – tests each individual part of the system, their connection levels and determine any defects.

To know more about earthing testing and also earthing installation we highly encourage reading our blog with further details. 

Insulation Resistance Tests

Wires and cables need to have proper insulation to ensure they do not heat up and open wires are exposed. Insulation resistance tests will measure two different points separated by insulation and the total resistance. This type of test is important as it will help detect any faults with insulation and prevent dangers such as electrical fires. 

The main steps involved in a general insulation resistance test are:

1. Voltage is introduced from zero to a specific voltage level to help keep the test more accurate.
2. The resistance of the cable or wire with its insulation will be tested through a specific tool.

Short Circuit Tests

Short circuits are a type of wiring issue which is extremely dangerous and often occurs from power and voltage disruptions. Faulty wiring may also cause a short circuit and this electrical hazard can easily cause fires or shocks. Signs of a short circuit often include buzzing noises, burning smells, flickering lights, inconsistent voltage or appliances not working. 

There are many ways an electrician can test for a short circuit:

• Digital Multimeter – inspecting the resistance at specific points in a circuit and if they are low.
• Relative to Ground – locating specific points with the ground connection and if there are low values.
• Shorted Components – using multimeters to measure resistance and a visual inspection.

Electrical Faults and Overload Tests

Electrical overloads are when there is too much electrical power within an electrical circuit or system. When this occurs often it trips the circuit breaker or similar devices as overloads can easily create dangerous situations. Testing for electrical overloads early will help in preventing electrical fires, shocks and damages to people and appliances. 

A general procedure in testing for electrical faults or overloads are:

1. Turning off all appliances, lights and switches of one circuit
2. Reset any tripped circuits through the circuit breaker or press the test button to test the system
3. Look over each appliance on the circuit and if when they switch on it causes the circuit breaker to trip then there is an electrical fault

Protective Device Tests

RCD switches and safety switches are protective devices that prevent people from being shocked by electrical faults. These devices are extremely important which is why performing tests to see if they are working correctly is essential. 

The main method an RCD or safety switch is tested is by pushing the test button which should automatically enter the off position. If it does not then the device does not work and is not protecting people from electrical surges.

For a more detailed guide on how to test the RCD switches which also applies to safety switches, we recommend checking out our blog article.

There are many electrical testing tasks that occur during a work and home electrical safety inspection, a few more being:

• Smoke alarm tests to ensure that they work and people can hear them correctly
• Testing the lights and electrical systems connected, ensuring they work properly and no faults are present
• Looking over the electrical switchboard and that all circuits are working properly 
• Checking to see if any DIY projects have not been completed well through certain tests

Electrical testing is an extremely important task where they are many different tasks involved. Numerous electrical systems, circuits, appliances and equipment are correctly tested, checked and inspected. To know how often you should get an electrical inspection we strongly recommend reading our blog with further detailed information.