There is often a lot of confusion when it comes to differentiating between different types of electricians and electrical companies in Calgary. While the basic foundation of electrical knowledge and skillset may be similar, the job description is actually very different. Commercial and residential electricians both require high school diplomas, they both need to undergo an apprenticeship program and attend classes, execute 8 000 to 10 000 hours of onsite experience and pass a competency exam. So, how do they differ?
Commercial Electricians
Commercial electricians operate on commercial buildings/properties such as medical centres, malls, warehouses and hotels. Due to the size and purpose of these buildings, the safety requirements and electrical codes that need to be met differ from those of a residential property. Commercial electricians often plan and diagram the building’s electrical systems themselves but on occasion they might work off of blueprints supplied by the GC (General Contractor). This type of electrician not only installs and runs the electrical wiring for the building, they also provide the wiring for refrigeration and air conditioning units. They are in charge of making sure the instruments that control the lighting, heating and power units in the building are running efficiently and are wired properly.
Besides the fact that commercial electricians work on systems where the wiring involves a significantly bigger amount of electricity than residential sites, they are also often called upon for the installations of cable trays, commercial outlet boxes, bus ducts and large conductors. They do work on raceways, commercial transformers and generators and they can also execute the termination of large conductors.
Residential Electricians
A residential electrician’s domain is split between newly constructed residential homes, renovated homes and aged homes that need repairs/electrical updates. In newly constructed homes, the responsibility of the electrician is to install conduits, wire up the lighting, ventilation systems and the appliances, keeping within the specific safety requirements and electrical codes that apply to residential properties. It is almost certain that any new housing job will require the installation of circuit breakers, heating, outlets, lighting and telecom systems. While residential electricians may work on bigger properties such as apartment buildings or vacation residences, they are limited to being exposed to and working on no higher than 240 volts of electricity.
Residential and Commercial electricians are both vital and important positions held in the community. Whether it is the safety of your business building or the functionality of your home, we all need an electrician we can trust. Here at Sons of Electric, we offer you the best of both commercial and residential electrical workmanship. We pride ourselves on being able to assist you with any electrical job in your business or your home. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you!