Monthly Archives: November 2017

Schaffhouser Electricians

What is the difference in commercial, residential, and industrial electricians?

An electrician is not a “one size fits all” profession because there are many differences among commercial, residential, and industrial electricians. For each type of job, an electrician will use different wiring techniques due to energy needs, equipment used, and load demands. Also, commercial, residential, and industrial electricians abide by different procedures and different materials. That is why it is so important to make sure you are hiring the right type of electrician to get the job done for you.

Residential Electricians
Obviously, residential electricians work in homes. They differ from industrial and commercial electricians because they use single phase power supplies (120-240 volts). Residential electricians run romex cables and keep the wiring hidden from view by wrapping their wiring in sheathed insulation. This approach minimizes exposure and damage to the wires, and, most importantly, protects homeowners from electrical shock.

Commercial Electricians
Stores and offices are where you will find a commercial electrician installing power outlets and lighting. By using a three-phase approach, their wiring has two smaller “legs” running one voltage and a larger “leg” running a higher voltage. Thus, the three-wire systems allows an overall lighter workload. The wiring done by commercial electricians remain exposed; however, it is typically run along the exposed sides of ceilings and walls.

Industrial Electricians
Basically, an industrial electrician is the same as a commercial electrician but works in factories, chemical plants, and mines. Industrial electricians also use a three-phase power set up. The main difference is that they mostly work with RMC conduit that powers control circuitry as opposed to running MTC or MC cables.

Here at Schaffhouser Electric we have quality industrial and commercial electricians for all of your wiring needs. Whether it is a store, office, factory, or plant, we will get the job done right!