Why a Home has Motors and Transformers Burning Up
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Why is this home burning up lighting transformers and motors? How Voltage Drop can Cause Problems with a Home Electrical System. |
Electric Motors and Transformers Burning Up
Electrical Question: Why is this home burning up lighting transformers and electric motors?
- We are an electrical contractor and have run in to something we have never seen in 16 years.
- The house is very large, 25,000 square feet. We continually keep burning up 3″ low voltage can light transformers. It is all over the house.
- The home has 800 amps 3 phase service. 120/208v.
- We have checked every connection there is to check in the house.
- The power company says that they are fine on their end.
- The house sat for about 7 years unfinished. It was completely gutted down to the existing service and panels.
- The service rated transfer and 800 amp MDP (Main Distribution Panel) is out at the generator location. (This is 150′ from the main house).
- We have installed all new branch circuit wiring throughout the house. HVAC has also had problems with motors burning up. At this point we are at a loss.
Any advise would be welcomed.
Thank you,
Rob
This electrical wiring question came from Rob, in Cumming, Georgia.
Additional Comments: AWESOME!
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Rob.
How to Identify and Fix Voltage Drop Problems
Application: Evaluating a Main Electrical Service for a Voltage Drop Problem.
Skill Level: Advanced – Best performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor, Not Recommended for Homeowners.
Tools Required: Electricians pouch of hand tools and the various power tools necessary for the electric panel upgrade.
Estimated Time: Depends on the exact type of the existing panel or fuse box, the replacement panel to be installed, the original wiring methods that were used for installing the existing wiring, and available access to the project area.
Precaution: This is an extensive project that should be performed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor and typically requires specifications in accordance with the local utility company or electric service provider. Working in an electric panel is dangerous due to arc flash hazards and the possibility of electric shock.
Notice: Making changes to the Home Electrical Service Panel should be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Voltage Drop Can Cause Serious Problems with Home Electrical Systems
- Voltage Drop Problem
- Hi Rob, From what you have described I believe the problem is due to Voltage Drop.
- The wire size feeding the MDP from the point of connection with the utility company should be closely examined.
- In most cases, the utility company will verify their power up to their service connection, not to the home.
- Keep in mind that when testing voltage out at various locations it may seem OK, but when a load is placed then the voltage may drop significantly. Such will be the case at any motor load.
- When motors burn up the wire size and voltage should always be examined. This is where we need to make sure the feeder size is correct, and take into consideration the LRA of any HVAC equipment.
- How to Fix a Voltage Drop Problem
- If you find that the main feeder size is too small, and it is aluminum wire, then one easy fix is to replace with copper, but more research will be needed.
- In a case where the home is far from the attachment to the utility company, it is best to have the primary voltage service closer to the home where the transformer may be located, and then run secondary voltage from there.
- Depending on the layout, the generator location may be the best place to land the primary voltage, then make secondary voltage connections to the transfer switch etc.
- Electrical Circuit Load Balancing
- Another thing that may help is to make sure the load is balanced across all phases as much as possible.
- This will also prevent over loading the neutral, and it will cause the electric bills to be lower.
- Unfortunately, load balancing is best performed with a load study that is taken over time with the home operational and occupied. However just surveying the single phase loads to make sure they are evenly distributed across all phases at the panel will be very helpful.
More about Home Electrical Service Panels and Power Problems
House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Electrical Circuit Wiring
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.
Electrical Panel Circuit Listing
Home Electrical Codes
Electrical Code Directory covering electrical services and underground electrical wiring, electrical.
Electrical Calculations and Formulas to Prevent Electric Motors and Transformers Burning Up
Electrical Calculations and Formulas
Voltage Drop Calculator
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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