Emergency lighting comes in two main types of systems. The wiring that is used is based on how an emergency light is receiving its power. Usually, the choice between a self-contained system and centrally based battery is contingent on cost and the specific needs of a company. For example, if the company requires an installation that is low-maintenance and possesses a long lifespan, a central battery may be preferred on a project that is large in scale.
For smaller installations, companies must consider installation expenses and luminaire costs in choosing a system. In these instances, a self-contained system is often a popular choice. As you can see, it is important to make distinctions when selecting a system. In order to make a decision, companies must look at the benefits and disadvantages of each electrical design.
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Single-Point System Benefits
By consulting with an electrician in Balcatta, you can gain better insight into a system’s operation. When a single point or self-contained system is chosen, you can realise the following advantages:
- Installation is quick and economical as extra cables do not have to be installed.
- Standard wiring can be used.
- Maintenance costs are lower.
- Hardware costs are reduced as extended wiring or additional ventilation is unnecessary.
- System integrity is
- The system can be expanded.
- No sub-circuit tracking is needed.
Drawbacks
Whilst a self-contained system has some decided advantages, it also has some drawbacks. For example, the batteries used for the system may be affected by temperature extremes. Also, battery life is restricted to up to four years. Any testing necessitates that each luminaire be observed individually.
Central Battery Benefits
If you choose to go with a central battery design for your emergency lighting, you will enjoy the following advantages:
- Maintenance and testing is simplified as only one location is utilised.
- The life of the battery is longer, up to 25 years in some cases.
- The system remains stable in environmentally protected surroundings. Luminaires can operate in temperature extremes with no effect on the battery.
- The luminaires and batteries are less expensive.
Drawbacks
The drawbacks of using this system include the following:
- A higher capital investment is requ
- The cost of the wiring is high as it must comply with safety requirements.
- The integrity of the system is poor. Any failure can affect a good part of the system.
- A battery space is required for the circuitry and batteries.
- A mains failure in one area may not trigger the emergency lighting system to work in that area.
If you work with an electrical company that knows all the ins and outs of rewiring and installing emergency lighting systems, you can obtain a better grasp of what you need. Emergency lighting is an important component in any business’s operation. Therefore, make sure that the company you contact is an expert in the field.