Learning About Electricity (UK)?

[bobfog]

Firstly I couldn't see an appropriate sub-forum for such a question, so I put it here. I'm sure a moderator will move it somewhere they deem more appropriate.

So, on with the question:

I'm a carpenter/joiner/installer and I'm finding myself working on projects recently where collaboration with other trades is becoming a daily occurrence.

I'm finding that I'm quite clueless on the subject of electricity/electrical installation and want to understand a bit more of the jargon, rules and general basics of electrical installation. Basically, I don't want to have quite so blank and clueless look on my face in meetings, or when asked by the sparks to accommodate/be aware/sympathetic to the requirement of the installation of "XYZ" in my design or installation plan.

Any websites that I can brush up a little on what the basics are?

Thanks.

 

[Simon (UK)]

Bobfrog, Are you looking for commercial/industrial or domestic install information?
Simon.

 

[bobfog]

Bobfrog, Are you looking for commercial/industrial or domestic install information?
Simon.

Domestic to light commercial premises. 

 

[Petey83]

i spent a couple of years as a sparks apprentice before getting bored of crawling around under floors and up in lofts and moved to become a desk jockey in the world of IT (regret this now so so much) so happy to try and answer any specifics you have.

Google should be able to answer some of your questions in terms of jargon.

From a regulatory perspective i would suggest getting a copy of the Part P building regs and having a read of that.

 

[sancho57]

lets see,

famous electrical terms,

hmmm what does this switch do?

Where does this wire go?

Hey watch this?

let me know when the light comes on,

 

[tjbnwi]

Bobfrog, Are you looking for commercial/industrial or domestic install information?
Simon.

Domestic to light commercial premises.

Here that would not be possible. [eek]

I'm guessing at my translation of that other english----domestic is residential--commercial is commercial.

An electrical plan is not supplied in the blueprints for a commercial build/remodel?

Tom

 

[Simon (UK)]

I was in the electrical industry for quite some time and in not aware of any all encompassing websites.
I'd suggest looking at some electrical distribution manufacturers websites and see if they do any free installation guides. They quite often do.
http://www2.schneider-electric.com/...tion-guide/electrical-installation-guide.page

Above is one such though you will have to sign up.
Other manufacturers to check out would be Hager, MK, Electrium/Crabtree, ABB, LeGrand.

If you can get hold of a copy of the wiring regulations (BS7671) even out of date ones will give you lots of good info, or the On-site Guide (basic info for domestic install) they will help.

We wary of some of the DIY portals as info can be a bit sketchy.

The IET and NICEIC websites are tricky to negotiate at times but their forums can be useful.

I'll root around my loft and see if I have any old stuff I can forward to you. I'd be happy to swap for info on how to woodwork properly. 

S.

 

[AndyUK]

I think that's the problem sometimes with the internet, in that sometimes there is so much information and opinions on some subjects that you can get lost looking for specific answers to questions.
Have you considered visiting your local library to see if they have any relevant technical books on the subject or even consider buying a book that is relevant and up to date?

 

[Simon (UK)]

Most of the books I've come across are ok (ish) on the technical bits but light on the practical installation side.
I may be wrong but I'm guessing Bobfrog is after more of the latter.
S.

 

[GarryMartin]

I'd recommend Wiring and Lighting by Chris Kitcher.

You'll find useful explanations of terminology, examples of the sort of work you might be asked to do, but I believe just as importantly how to work safely *and* what to expect with regard to the work the electrician actually does - you'll quickly be able to spot good work from bad work. There's good detail on lighting and power circuits and should you wish, enough detail and instruction that you'll be able to take on small works like extending an existing circuit yourself if that's something you might be interested in.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wiring-Lighting-Chris-Kitcher/dp/1847974163

The Collins DIY manuals also have reasonably good electrical sections that may help, certainly for domestic situations. They're readily available from libraries.

 

[uke73]

As already suggested, get the onsite guide to the wiring regulations. Make sure you get the yellow one (Amendment 3). Costs about 22 quid

 

[richy3333]

I'm happy to answer any questions you have.

BTW if you undertake electrical work as part of your business then you are responsible for inspecting, testing and certifying the work. Make sure your insurance covers you. Generally electrical work is straightforward. Dealing with and sorting  DIYers mess isn't.

Learn about safe zones for cables. One wood bodger I dealt with a few years ago hit my cables 8 times in a house remodel. That cost him big with the customer

 

[bobfog]

I'd recommend Wiring and Lighting by Chris Kitcher.

You'll find useful explanations of terminology, examples of the sort of work you might be asked to do, but I believe just as importantly how to work safely *and* what to expect with regard to the work the electrician actually does - you'll quickly be able to spot good work from bad work. There's good detail on lighting and power circuits and should you wish, enough detail and instruction that you'll be able to take on small works like extending an existing circuit yourself if that's something you might be interested in.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Wiring-Lighting-Chris-Kitcher/dp/1847974163

The Collins DIY manuals also have reasonably good electrical sections that may help, certainly for domestic situations. They're readily available from libraries.

Thanks for the suggestion (and everyone else's suggestions) this book look exactly like what I'm looking for.

Thanks again.

 

[kostello]

Get a copy of the Collins diy electrics book.......it is the perfect place to start if you have no knowledge

Thumb through at your leisure.......