Installing New Wiring in Your Home

3 Ways an Electrical Contractor Can Improve Pool Safety

20 March 2018 by June Alvarez

Swimming pools are a lot of fun and are a great way to escape the heat of the Australian summer. Many modern pools are now fitted with lights and pumps which are powered using electricity. As you can imagine, electricity and water do not mix very well. A problem with the electrical system in your pool creates a very serious risk of electrocution, which could result in severe injury or even the loss of life. Below is a guide to how electricians can help you to ensure that your pool is safe.

Installing equipment which uses battery power

The standard voltage for Australian homes is 230 volts. This voltage is high enough to cause death or serious injury if a person is shocked by it. Within the home, many appliances require a voltage this high in order to operate. However, the equipment such as the pump and the lighting in your pool will typically not require such a high voltage. This means that you can power them using lower voltage batteries which are recharged using solar power. Not only will this help to save you money by reducing your energy bill, but it will also reduce the risk associated with electrical accidents.

Inspecting the electrical system

Just like any other electrical system in your home, your pool requires regular maintenance and inspection. If you have a background in electrical systems, you may wish to carry out this work yourself. However, it is typically best left to a professional electrician. The electrician will inspect the wiring for signs of wear and will replace any damaged sections. They will also inspect the light fittings within the pool, as these are the parts which are in direct contact with the water. The electrical contractor will ensure that each fitting is sealed and watertight.

Installing safety devices

Even the most well maintained electrical system may be subject to power surges and other unforeseen events. You can help to safeguard against this risk by asking an electrical contractor to add safety devices to the electrical system which feeds your pool. These safety devices work by interrupting the flow of electrical power when a sensor detects a sudden drop in the electrical current. Sudden drops in power most often occur when something, such as a person, another wire or the water in the pool, comes into contact with a live wire. By quickly cutting the power supply, these safety devices help to minimise the risk of electrocution.

If you would like further information, you should contact an electrical contractor.

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