Low Voltage in the Electrical Network: Causes and Dangers

Why do consumers experience low voltage in the electrical network ? The primary causes include aging electrical networks, poor maintenance, wear and tear on equipment, improper network planning, and a significant increase in energy consumption. As a result, millions of consumers are experiencing low voltage. While a drop to 200 volts might be manageable, voltages as low as 180, 160, or even 140 volts are common in many households.

It’s important to note that voltage levels can vary significantly within a single electrical network. The farther a consumer is from the distribution point, the lower the voltage will be.

Causes of Low Voltage

A significant increase in the power consumption of individual consumers is another factor contributing to low voltage. Today, it’s rare to find a household with just one kettle, one TV, one refrigerator, and five light bulbs. The electrical load in homes has increased dramatically since the days when circuit breakers were rated at 6.5 amps. This increased load can overload the network, leading to voltage drops.

Seasonal variations in energy consumption also contribute to voltage fluctuations. For example, in rural areas, energy consumption spikes during summer weekends as people use more electricity for cooling, gardening, and other outdoor activities. Conversely, consumption drops during winter weekdays.

Dangers of Low Voltage

Electrical appliances are designed to operate within a specific voltage range, typically 220-230 volts with a tolerance of 5%. When the voltage drops below this range, appliances may malfunction, become less efficient, or fail altogether. Low voltage can cause overheating, premature wear, and even fires.

Which Appliances are Most Affected?

  • Lighting: Incandescent bulbs will simply dim, but electronic devices like LED lights may flicker or not turn on at all.
  • Heating appliances: Electric stoves and heaters may take longer to heat up or may not reach their full temperature.
  • Motors: Motors in appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners, and pumps can overheat and fail due to the increased current required to operate at lower voltages.
  • Electronic devices: Computers, TVs, and other electronic devices may experience performance issues or damage due to low voltage.

How to Increase Voltage

There are two primary ways to address low voltage issues:

  1. Contact the electricity provider: The most effective solution is to contact your local utility company and report the low voltage issue. They can investigate the problem and take steps to improve the voltage levels in your area.
  2. Use a voltage stabilizer: A voltage stabilizer is a device that can help regulate the voltage supplied to your home. However, it’s important to note that stabilizers may not be effective if the voltage drop is too severe.

Choosing a Voltage Stabilizer

When selecting a voltage stabilizer, consider the following factors:

  • Load capacity: Ensure the stabilizer’s capacity is sufficient to handle the total power consumption of your appliances.
  • Input voltage range: Choose a stabilizer that can accommodate the expected voltage fluctuations in your area.
  • Type of stabilizer: There are different types of stabilizers available, including electromechanical, electronic, and servo-controlled. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Low voltage in the electrical network can cause significant problems for homeowners and businesses. By understanding the causes of low voltage and taking appropriate measures, you can help protect your electrical appliances and ensure a reliable power supply.