What should I look for in a commercial electrician, London, South and UK?

What is a commercial electrician?

A commercial electrician is an individual with qualifications and training that allows them to undertake electrical work in a commercial building. Commercial installations differ in many ways, the systems used in these buildings are much bigger and more complex in comparison to residential systems.  A commercial electrician is often required to design and consider how best to incorporate the electrical wiring of the building. For example, how to minimise the visibility of electrical wires. So what should I look for in a commercial electrician? Below is a list of considerations you should explore before hiring a commercial electrician.

 

Examples of commercial buildings

1. Retail Stores
2. Office
3. Data Centres
4. Hospitality (hotels, restaurants etc…)
5. Education (Schools, Colleges, Universities etc..)

 

Commonly, the wiring in these building will be to support the efficient running of the business. The electrical wiring will be designed primarily for the technology, lighting, and other equipment. In most buildings, the climate systems such as heating, and air conditioners will already be in place. These systems are installed as part of the original main build.

Consideration when choosing a Commercial Electrician

As a business owner there are Health & Safety Regulations you should adhere to. These regulations are in place to guide and hold you accountable if there’s an incident. Not only do these regulations ensure the safety of your employees and the public, but they also protect your company. Not many small businesses are able to recover after a total loss caused by a fire. With this in mind, its important you do your due diligence when hiring a commercial electrician. You want to have an electrician that is reliable, knowledgeable, and competent. Below are some of our top qualities to look out for.

Safety

As you’re already aware, the consequences of poor electrical wiring can be catastrophic. A good commercial electrician will ensure the safety of every individual on site. If their working during opening hours they should provide safe systems of working to how your building will be safe during work hours. There should be procedures in place to protect employees or the public.

Expertise and Qualifications

Electrical Installations follow a set standard of expectations and guidelines, they outline how the installation should be conducted. Accreditation bodies like the NICEIC provide standards to be followed. The electrical sign-off upon completion will be checked and tested to those guidelines. If results return as a pass, a certificate will be awarded to show regulations were followed and met.

Design focused

Commercial electrical installations are incorporated into the design of the building. Depending on your office, shop, hotel etc... the electrical wiring must suit and match the aesthetics of the building. A company with knowledge on how to best to incorporate your electrical wiring into your building design will make all difference once the job is complete. Lastly, there is a vast range of electrical solutions to match the design of your building. Picking the right company will enhance your commercial space.

Consistency

Commercial projects are commonly longer in duration, they’re phased over several stages of work. For instance, an initial first fix of wiring might be called for, then a second termination visit after certain building elements are completed. A company that is consistent and reliable will make the process much easier for you. In addition, the quality of work and communication through out the project will also put your mind at ease.

Experience

Hiring an experienced electrical company will make all the difference. A company with vast experience in the industry is likely to be more versatile and familiar with the specific needs and challenges of your project. Lastly, a highly experienced company will also be able to adjust to unforeseen circumstances that may occur.

 

What is an Industrial Electrician?

Industrial electricians work on larger and extensive range of electrical installations, these will range from micro-currents to high voltage components. The electrical wiring in these buildings support local power such as work areas and offices. In a way its similar to commercial electrical installations. However, industrial has an added consideration of powering the plant and machinery. This equipment requires a much heavier load, and it has a larger and more complex electrical wiring installation.

Examples of buildings

1. Distribution centres
2. Pharmaceutical
3. Warehouses
4. Manufacturing

 

These buildings often require working at greater heights. Engineers must work from elevated powered access platforms and scaffold towers. Additionally, due to the nature of the larger cables, the electrical wiring in these buildings is often exposed and visible. The wiring is commonly contained on metal tray work and installed over greater distances. This contrasts commercial electricians who specialise and focus on concealing all wiring.

 

What is a Residential Electrician?

Residential electricians specialise in home installations. However, not all installations are the same. Household installations can be for a new build, or it can be a re-wire to an existing property. Furthermore, the work may be service based like fixing faulty circuits or additional electrical wiring in certain rooms.

Another difference in household installations is that houses contain no visible or accessible routes. Commonly houses have solid walls and ceilings, in many cases brick instead of plasterboard partitions. However, with commercial and industrial installations, the electrical wiring is added to existing containment, or containment is mounted on the surface, in the ceiling, or floor voids.