A Homeowner's Guide to Electrical

Home electrical system and lighting

Residential Electrical Systems | Single Phase:

Most homes are powered from what is called a single-phase electrical system. This system consists of two phases (phase A and phase B). Between these two phases there is a voltage (v) of 240v. Between either phase A or B and the neutral (N) or ground (G) there is a voltage of 120v. These are the voltages used to power electrical appliances and electronics throughout your home.

Utility Grid:

Power is delivered from the local utility grid to your house, via overhead or underground service conductors. As a homeowner you own from the first point of connection to the utility lines and beyond.

Meter Socket:

The first piece of electrical equipment attached to the exterior your home is the meter socket. This is the first place the electricity goes on its way into your home. This is where the meter (owned by the utility company) is installed. The meter will measure your power consumption in kilowatt hours (kWh). The service lines from the utility grid are connected to the meter socket along the with service entrance conductors which will carry your homes electricity from the meter socket to your Main Electrical Panel.

Main Electrical Panel:

The central hub of your homes electrical system is your main electrical panel. This is where electricity is distributed throughout you home via branch circuits. Your main service panel consists of a main breaker; rated 100, 150 or 200 amps. This allows power to be disconnected from your entire home in the event of an emergency. Also, your main electrical panel is where whole home surge protection should be installed. Beyond the main breaker are branch circuit breakers. These breakers protect individual branch circuits throughout your home from overloads and direct shorts. A common misconception is that these breakers are designed to provide power to each individual circuit. However, they’re designed to shut power off in the event of one of these dangerous situations. Contact Sphere Electric today; our licensed electricians in Denver, CO have the tools and knowledge to ensure proper function and safety of your homes electrical system. From panel repairs to panel replacements, our reliable electricians get the job done right.

Grounding & Bonding:

Grounding and bonding is an important safety component of your homes electrical system. Your entire homes electrical system is grounded and bonded at the main electrical panel. The purpose of the grounding system is to provide all conductive surfaces with a direct, low resistance path to ground. Proper grounding of an electrical system is essential in preventing the possibility of electric shock.

Contact Sphere Electric today; our licensed electricians in Denver, CO will ensure your grounding system is up to par, protecting the ones you love and the equipment you own.

Branch Circuits:

Branch circuits run throughout your home providing proper power distribution for appliances, electronics, lighting, EV chargers, heating & cooling and more… Proper power distribution ensures that your homes electrical system operates smoothly without overloading circuits, causing unnecessary headaches. Furthermore, GFCI & AFCI protection are required for many branch circuits throughout your home. Contact Sphere Electric today; our licensed electricians in Denver, CO will keep your homes electrical system safe and code compliant. From breaker replacement to outlet installation, we will ensure proper function of your electrical circuits.

Outlets & Switches:

Outlets and switches may be the part of an electrical system that homeowners are most familiar with. This is where you can plug in your electronics and turn on your lights, bringing your home to life. There are many options from dimmer switches to smart switches. USB outlets or Surge Protected outlets to add an extra layer of protection to your most important electronics. Contact Sphere Electric today; our licensed electricians in Denver, CO can customize your electrical system to meet your needs. Our local, trustworthy electricians get the job done right.

Smoke Detectors & CO Detectors:

Smoke & CO detectors are a vital part of your home’s safety. Providing an early warning to ensure the safety of you family in the unexpected presence of potentially life-threatening event. Whether a fire or carbon monoxide exposure; these devices provide early warning, allowing you and your loved ones to get to safety. Contact Sphere Electric today, our licensed electricians in Denver, CO can provide proper smoke detector installation and positioning, ensuring home safety to protect those you love the most.

Indoor Lighting & Outdoor Lighting:

Lighting is the final touch that brings your home to life. From recessed lights to wall sconces having an evenly lit home can make all the difference. As technology advances into well rounded LED lighting solutions, we can improve the essence of your home while maintaining energy efficiency. Contact Sphere Electric today, our licensed electricians in Denver, CO can provide ceiling fan installation, recessed lighting and LED energy efficient lighting solutions.

Final Note:

From pools & spas to lighting and outlets, your home's electrical system takes a leading role in the functionality of your home. Whether it’s time to work, relax or enjoy; Sphere Electric is here to keep your homes electrical system in safe, optimal working condition.