Our project updates are back up and running for this year and we’re kicking things off with a recently completed project in Moncton’s downtown core. The Tannery Place South building is home to 48 apartment units and 6 commercial spaces that offer high-end amenities, a gorgeous view of the Petitcodiac River or Jones Lake and is surrounded by restaurants, retail stores and entertainment venues such as the Avenir Centre.
Our project updates are back up and running for this year and we’re kicking things off with a recently completed project in Moncton’s downtown core. The Tannery Place South building is home to 48 apartment units and 6 commercial spaces that offer high-end amenities, a gorgeous view of the Petitcodiac River or Jones Lake and is surrounded by restaurants, retail stores and entertainment venues such as the Avenir Centre.
Our final project update of 2020 turns its attention on a really unique residential & commercial project developed by City Realty on St. George street in Moncton, NB. The land here, for many years, had been occupied by Lyle’s gas station, one of the last of its kind that still offered full-service fill-ups all the way up to its final days. While this property had seen better days, the combined efforts of many local entrepreneurs to breathe new life into this part of the downtown core gave City Realty an opportunity to create a mix of commercial and residential spaces for new tenants looking for city living with luxury, security and comfort in mind.
Simply put, nothing is typical about this development. The project management team at Bay Construction in charge of leading this development emphasized on the beauty & uniqueness of spearheading the construction of one the first 5-story wood buildings in this area.
All of the apartments have their own unique shape, configuration & look. This really isn’t your typical residential development. Because of the limited space, maximizing every inch of the land was a top priority. And due to a more detailed approach, there were also quite a few good oriented groups of companies involved such as Nadeau-Soucy-Ellis architects, Erik Lebrun from AGILE Design & Fabrication, MCW Engineering, Jr Daigle Engineering, Match Engineering and of course many subtrades!
The residential side boasts a mix of 1- & 2-bedroom apartments that range from 600-1400sq. ft. and all 2-bedroom units have been fitted with 2 bathrooms.
New tenants also have an amazing opportunity to upgrade the living amenities with 27 indoor parking spaces on the main floor. The spacious, high-ceiling drive-in garage offers secure, heated protection for vehicles in a busy area where public parking can be a nuisance on some days.
The project also includes 3 commercial spaces which host a local MLA office, a café, and an Indian grocery store. These spaces range in size from 600 to 1000sq. ft.
Developing a space like this was also not an easy feat as building codes needed to be updated and you’re almost certain to meet complications along the way when you’re working with a tight space.
When it came to the electrical portion of the project, our team of 8-12 electricians were put in charge of bringing this building to light! As mentioned above, there was nothing “typical” about this apartment complex as most of its residential units had different floor layouts which, in turn, creates a challenge when it comes to the execution.
Our team’s high attention to detail was on full display to ensure that anything going into the building matched the drawings and design. And to add to the complexity of this project, it included things such as:
80kw 600v natural gas Kohler generator for backup power to the building.
Heated parking garage.
3x commercial spaces having 600v 3phase power for each.
Buildings having 347/600 volts as their primary voltage creates a larger scope of work for us since standard residential components operate on 120/208volts. In order to achieve this, we needed to supply and install, as per the engineered drawings, step down transformers to accommodate the increased primary voltage. It might sound easy at first glance, but as you can see in the images, the electrical room has many moving parts!
On top of having to install all of the building’s switch boards, automatic transfer switches, transformers and distribution panels, we were also responsible for:
Pulling all 40 apartment feeder wires throughout the building.
Installing all electrical boxes and pulling the wires within the hallways and suites.
Running all data cables throughout the building.
Wiring, testing and installation of all Fire Alarm systems and all their devices.
Installing all plugs, switches, light fixtures, baseboard heaters, thermostats, etc.
Intercom system and more!
Incorporating the large Kohler generator in an already limited space was also not an easy feat, but with some ingenuity and smart planning, using part of the terrace at the back seemed like the best solution.
On a Zoom call just a week ago, John Toogood was also quick to mention the high reliability and performance of this component as a power outage hit the area just a few weeks back. The Kohler generator system kicked on instantly when power is lost and provides ample power to make sure that the common area building lighting stays on and the garage continues to function for easy in-and-out access.
Tons of coordination, planning and team work goes into these large projects and we are very proud to be able to say we played a role in bringing this beautiful building to our downtown area. It’s always a pleasure to work on projects that have their own unique twist to them.
With lots of development happening at a quick rate in our downtown core, we’re always excited at the prospect of working on projects that give us the opportunity to think of new ways to better service our clients. Tight spaces, varied layouts and added amenities were all in full display throughout this project and it was an absolute pleasure of working alongside Bay Construction and the Toogood family on this development.
There are still apartments available for lease, so be sure to check out the City Realty Facebook page or visit them on their website www.cityrealtyltd.com
But for now, we’re looking forward to showcasing more projects in 2021 as we’ll no doubt continue to give you an in-depth look at our daily activities in the Greater Moncton area.
City Realty on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CityRealtyLtd/
Bay Construction + Management on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Bayconstructioncanada/
Lumar Electric | (506) 389-2393 | Built on Passion.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumarelectric
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2020 is almost coming to an end and, although we’ve worked on some outstanding projects in both residential and commercial settings, behind the scenes our SITEWORK capabilities have continued to grow and flourish with more demand for projects that require a turn-key approach that forces us to dig, excavate and do quite a bit of “dirty work” to complete major electrical upgrades for our clients.
In this month’s project update, we wanted to shed a bit of light on an often-overlooked component of our day-to-day operations. Our SITEWORK team has been working diligently on a portion of the Tannery project by Foulem Construction that involved many moving parts and heavy equipment. This is a prime example of some of the challenges that we sometimes face in our industry that need to be addressed in order to satisfy our client’s needs and strict regulations in our province.
On this project, having found out that the original transformer pad was no longer in the right location and would create limitations for future development. The Team initially planned to dig, excavate and expose the 4-cell NB Power duct bank to allow re-routing of the conduits. Upon exposure, it was determined that the original plan would not work due to the duct bank having far more conduits than expected and would require approval from NB power to undergo any changes.
Upon the completed inspection and with the initial plan out of the window, the Team’s new plan went as followed:
Coordinate with NB power to disconnect the High Voltage lines running inside the conduits.
Expose the duct bank further up to locate the original provisions.
Cut into the existing duct bank and re-route the conduits to a new URD box (underground distribution box).
Run new primary conduits from to the new URD box and from the URD box to the location of the new transformer pad.
Run new secondary conduits out of the new transformer pad to a new location that could be excavated and extended at a later date to a new building.
Our new fleet of SITEWORK equipment was put to good use to conclude this major relocation with the cutting and re-pouring of cement, installing bollards, backfilling and tamping to NB power specs. The process also undergoes quite a few inspections from NB Power once certain steps are completed to ensure that all required variations adhere to our provincial safety guidelines.
Jobs like these are a prime example of why having a team of experienced local electricians who have access to the best tools truly gives us the ability to service our clients from start to finish. Over the years, our growth has allowed us to realize that investing in valuable experience and upgrading our equipment frequently is the catalyst to building and maintaining relationships with our clients.
Although jobs like this aren’t the prettiest, they perfectly highlight our team’s capabilities and allow you to give us the opportunity to trust us with any of your electrical related endeavors. As we continue to work with Foulem Construction on the Tannery Place development, our team is looking forward to giving you an in-depth, behind-the-scenes take on the South building we are currently working on.
Lumar Electric | (506) 389-2393 | Built on Passion.
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Facebook: www.facebook.com/lumarelectric
In this month’s project update, we shift our focus to a very exciting residential development project happening in the northern part of our city. The Village at Jonathan Park is a luxurious townhouse community currently being built by none other than one of Atlantic Canada’s most successful custom home builders, Martell Custom Homes. Located just behind the Evergreen subdivision in Moncton-North, this fast-evolving community is home to Pierre Martell’s newest condominium project that features semi-detached, two-story homes that offer a fully customizable “blank canvas” interior for new homeowners looking to purchase a stress-free, dream property with tons of standard, high-end amenities.
With homes ranging from 1354 sq. ft. to 1454 sq. ft., new homeowners take possession of a highly energy efficient unit fitted with mini-split heat pumps that comes standard with features such as a private wooded backyard, 10-year new home warranty, paved driveway, attached garage, premier landscaping, 3-season sunroom, aluminum railings and cathedral ceilings. The village also boasts a very reliable maintenance package that includes snow removal and lawn care year-round.
Our Residential Manager Yves Caissie and our crews have been working on these units for the past 2 years to provide Martell Custom Homes with the necessary services to complete these projects flawlessly. Every unit’s electrical system comes with:
Underground 200A main electrical entrance.
LED pot lights in the kitchen & living room.
Digital thermostats throughout.
White Decora plugs and switches.
1-year parts & labour LuMar warranty.
And within every new custom home, the possibilities are endless. The real advantage of building with Pierre Martell and his team is the opportunities to truly create your dream home. Any idea that you may have can be disclosed in your initial consultations, quoted and added to your package. Custom features handled by our team so far have been generator panel upgrades, RV plug hookups, LED under-cabinet lighting, in-floor heating and custom LED pot light layouts.
With that said, if you have a dream feature that you want to add to your unit, chances are that Martell Custom Homes has already installed or added it to one of their numerous award-winning custom homes in the past. Their knowledge, experience, professionalism and final product speak for themselves.
Although this year has been a year that’s hit our industry with various challenges, Pierre has seen quite an increase in interest in these townhouses which has kept our on-site team busy all throughout the year. All units currently being worked on are pre-sold and moving at a fast pace to ensure that clients are in their homes by the end of the year.
With more and more people looking to downsize and move back east where the cost of living is still very good, The Village at Jonathan Park is quite possibly the best available option for these types of clients. And with so many digital tools available today, Pierre has been able to take full advantage of Zoom calls, Facetime, DocuSign and scheduling software to streamline his business successfully.
Our team continues to look forward to seeing what new clients will dream up for custom installs and we’ll be keeping you updated on this luxurious residential development as it continues to grow over the next few years!
For more information on The Village at Jonathan Park, please visit Martellcustomhomes.com
LuMar Electric | (506) 389-2393 | Built on Passion.
In this month’s project update series, we shift our focus on an ever-growing part of our tri-city. Dieppe, a community known for its numerous quieter suburban residential subdivisions, has seen quite a few key projects going up as of late in its “downtown” core. The Windgate by Wyndham hotel, extensive work and promotion of its Hotel de Ville area, the state-of-the-art Uniplex multi-function facility, and for almost a year now, luxurious building development just a few minutes from le Marché de Dieppe by Triquest Investments.
Promenade Neuf is a massive, seven-story 75 unit high-end apartment building that will offer 60 indoor heated parking spots (a full underground floor + ½ of the main floor), 12,000sq. ft. of retail space on the main floor with a street-side storefront, bike storage, and a completely equipped wash bay for vehicles. The complete building is almost 170,000sq. ft. and offers future tenants a variety of signature amenities and great options for turnkey apartments units. Fob access to the building with 24/7 CCTV security monitoring, multi-sized package lockers for deliveries, and a full-access fitness centre are just a few of the many amenities offered for the future residents of Promenade Neuf.
Working alongside project managers at Amico Construction, our team lead Mark Griffin has been at the site for a little over a year now overseeing the project and coordinating a team that has now grown to a crew of 12 electricians. The structure, being fully concrete is one of few in our city. This robust structure is unique as it sits on two-way freestanding concrete slabs supported by several concrete columns and is a non-combustible construction. These structures are very durable and have proven to stand up to the elements it will face.
With about 3 ½ weeks left of rough-in, Mark and his team have completed quite a few major components of this project
5 first floors are completely roughed in and ready for insulation & drywall.
The model suite is completed and ready for showings.
The main floor and underground parking spaces are piped and their wires are all pulled.
Electrical distribution has started and all main feeders are pulled including the installation of 3x large 600v transformers and their backup generator unit.
Looking into the next few months, our on-site team will be completing the rough-in work, it’s main distribution, fire alarm and emergency lighting system, decorative lighting installation and of course, completing all of the necessary final touches in each suite such as outlets, switches, thermostats and decorative device plates.
We also had a chance to chat with project manager Evan Fitzsimmons who highlighted a few unique pieces of this project. The building will be suited with a standalone ducted mini-split, smart Nest thermostats and 6x USB outlets in every suite. These are just a couple of the main attributes making these units unique. With units ranging from 1,227sq. ft. to 1,890 sq. ft., there has been absolutely no “corner-cutting” with this development. Detailed interior design and modern styling will be found all throughout the building and suites.
With an expected substantial completion date for apartments being February 2021, future residents will be amazed by the fact that Triquest has not skimped out on any of the finer details when it comes to offering true high-end living spaces. Having seen the model suite and being involved throughout the process of construction, we are extremely excited to see the end result and all the hard work completed by the other trades. Sometimes you forget that this once started on a large flat field and has now grown into an almost complete apartment complex like no other. With some of the upper floors still being roughed in and prepped for drywall, you make your way down the building, we’re now at near completion with drywall, flooring and other final cosmetic touches.
Our favourite part of this location? The views on the top floors are quite possibly the best in the city overseeing the Petitcodiac River and downtown Moncton.
We hope you enjoyed this month’s Project Update, stay tuned for more from Promenade Neuf when it gets closer to its completion and be sure to keep checking in on our online pages or Triquest’s pages for more up-to-date development updates on this project. You’ll be treated to great drone shots, milestones, and other cool posts about the fast-evolving construction of Promenade Neuf.
- Mario A. LeBlanc, CEO
For more info on living at Promenade Neuf, please visit https://promenadeneuf.ca/
Project management: https://amicoconstruction.ca/
Lumar Electric | www.lumarelectric.ca | (506) 389-2393 | Built on Passion.
June 28, 2018
Now in its 24th edition, the 2018 Canadian Electrical Code, Part I includes a number of significant updates and changes to better help electrical workers in the safe maintenance of electrical equipment and create safer electrical installations.
These updates will be in full effect in New Brunswick January 1st 2020.
This edition features important revisions to many sections. For example, Section 26 now mandates the use of tamper-resistant receptacles in additional areas where children may be present. Section 62 now requires ground fault circuit interrupter protection for heating devices and controls in proximity to tubs, sinks, and shower stalls. Section 10 has been updated, reorganized, and significantly reduced in length. Requirements for power over Ethernet systems have been added to Section 16, and requirements for marinas, wharves, and similar facilities have been substantially updated and reorganized in Section 78.
Read more below about the top 15 changes to the code.
1. Power over Ethernet
2015 Code — No specific requirements
2018 Code — New Subsection 16-300
POE (Power over Ethernet) has existed for many years however, recent revisions to IEEE standards for communications cables has opened the door to higher power applications for POE, such as room lighting. Through these cables, power levels approaching 100 W are possible, along with simultaneously communications between devices and systems. POE is typically implemented as a "structured" cable system, wherein cables are bundled together for extended lengths. Cable heating is a function of the power it carries and as such, installation and layout become critical factors in ensuring safe operation. New requirements for POE have been added to the Code in the form of new Rules 16-300 through 16-350, and Table 60.
2. Installation of identified conductor at control locations
2015 Code — Two wire simple switch loop acceptable
2018 Code — Identified conductor required at every control location
Control devices are increasingly used as an essential part of energy management systems. Many of these devices require power to operate, and where used in a simple switch loop, create a small current through the bonding conductor. As the number of devices increases, the cumulative current through the bonding system will become unacceptable. New Subrule 4-028(2) now mandates that an identified conductor be installed at each manual or automatic control location. This requirement applies to all occupancy types. The term “neutral” has been replaced with the more accurate term “identified conductor”.
3. Bonding and grounding
2015 Code — 15 pages long and two tables
2018 Code — 8 pages long and one table
Section 10 requirements have been reorganized into a more logical flow of requirements and significantly reduced in size. Objectives for solidly grounded, impedance grounded, and ungrounded systems are clearly specified at the beginning of the Section. Tables 16A and 16B have been combined into a single Table, with Rule 10-614 providing specific conditions for selecting the size of bonding conductor or bonding jumper.
4. Arc fault circuit interrupters
2015 Code — AFCI protection required, with some exemptions
2018 Code — exemptions tightened, application to existing circuits clarified
Clarification is now provided for AFCI protection of existing branch circuits that are extended due to renovations or additions. Exemptions from AFCI protection have been reduced or removed for number of areas including branch circuits supplying smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, and bathrooms.
5. Disconnecting means for LED luminaires
2015 Code — disconnecting means required for fluorescent ballasts
2018 Code — disconnecting means required for fluorescent ballasts and LED drivers
To support safe maintenance, the Code has for several editions required disconnecting means for fluorescent luminaires utilizing double ended lamps and operating at more than 150 V. With increased use of LED lighting, the requirements have been extended to LED luminaires exceeding 150 V to ground with double ended lamps.
6. Tamper resistant (TR) receptacles
2015 Code — TR receptacles required in dwelling units and child care facilities
2018 Code — TR receptacles required in additional occupancy types
The requirement for tamper resistant receptacles in dwelling units and child care facilities is expanded to include other areas where children may be present including hotel guest rooms, preschools, and elementary education facilities.
7. Equipment connected to devices having Class 2 outputs
2015 Code — approval requirement based on application
2018 Code — approval based on voltage and application. Voltage limited by location.
Products having a Class 2 output are covered by a number of standards including C22.2 No. 60950-1 (LPS), C22.2 No. 66.3 (Class 2 transformer) C22.2 no. 223 (ELV), C22.2 No. 250.13 (LED), and C22.2 No. 62368-1 (AV and IT). The output voltage from these supplies can vary substantially in magnitude and waveform, up to 60 Vdc. Revisions to Section 16 now set the requirements for approval of such equipment based on application, location, voltage, and waveform, and maximum permitted voltages for dry, damp, and wet locations.
8. Increased GFCI protection for wet areas
2015 Code — Nno requirement for GFCI protection for heaters or controls in bathrooms
2018 Code — GFCI protection required
Similar to GFCI requirements for receptacles in the vicinity of showers, sinks or tubs, new Section 62 Rules mandate GFCI protection for electric heating devices and heating controls in the vicinity of sinks, showers or tubs.
9. Continuous loads
2015 Code — complex continuous load requirements
2018 Code — continuous load requirements simplified.
Rule 8-104 has been one of the more misunderstood Rules in the Code, with varying interpretations of how it should be applied. Subrules 8-104(1) through (4) remain intact however, Subrules 8-104(5) through (7) have been distilled down two Subrules; one for switches and breakers marked for continuous operation at 100%, and one for switches and breakers marked for continuous operation at 80%. In both cases, the Subrules now simply require two things:
(1) that the continuous load not exceed the continuous operation marking on the fused switch or circuit breaker, and
(2) that the continuous load not exceed a specified percentage of the allowable ampacity determined from Section 4.
Gone are references to specific columns in Tables, underground installations, and derating (correction) factors.
10. The 5% Rule
2015 Code — calculated load permitted to exceed conductor ampacity by 5%
2018 Code — 5% rule eliminated
Subrule 8-106(1) has existed in the Code for some time however, the later introduction of Rule 8-104 put 8-106(1) in conflict. In addition, conductor ampacities are determined by Section 4, not 8, as confirmed by several related changes to Section 8. Finally, the Subrule has been inconsistently applied. As such, Subrule 8-106(1) was deleted.
11. Marking for maximum continuous load
2015 Code — no labelling requirement
2018 Code — maximum continuous load required to be field marked on equipment
The maximum continuous load determined for a given installation may be substantially less than the equipment rating. However, there is no requirement to communicate this information to maintenance personnel, installers, or inspectors, for purposes of future maintenance or modification of the electrical system. As a result, new Subrule 2-100(4) requires that a caution label be applied to the equipment to indicate the maximum permitted continuous load.
12. Electric shock drowning
2015 Code — 15 and 20 A receptacles require GFCI protection
2018 Code — ground fault protection for feeders, GFCI protection for receptacles
Much research has been conducted on the phenomenon known as electric shock drowning. Section 78 has been extensively updated to require GFCI and Ground Fault protection for branch circuits and feeders respectively. The scope of Section 78 has been expanded to include additional types of structures such as floating piers and docking facilities, and the Rules have been re-arranged to simplify navigation of the Section.
13. Electric vehicle energy management system
2015 Code — EV supply equipment loads added to load calculations at 100% of rating
2018 Code — demand factors recognized where energy management system used.
Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) can draw a substantial load when in the charging mode. For existing buildings, the addition of EVSE can result in the total load exceeding the existing service capacity. In this case, the first option is to increase the service size. A second option is to install a system to monitor the power being drawn by EVSEs and other building loads, and control the EVSE loads such that the overall load does not exceed the limits of the existing service, feeders, and branch circuits. In combination with new Rule 8-500 and new Subrules 8-106(11) and (12) such systems are now recognized in the Code as Electric Vehicle Energy Management Systems (EVEMS). Complementary to the introduction of EVEMS, a new Table of loads and demand factors has been added specifically for EVSE.
14. Kitchen wall (not counter) receptacles
2015 Code — separate branch circuit required
2018 Code — separate branch circuit not required
Wall receptacles provided in a kitchen are required to be supplied by a separate circuit. However, this requirement predates the requirement for counter receptacles and circuits. Given that many kitchens are now used as general living areas, and that receptacles are now required to be provided along the kitchen wall in the same fashion as a living room, there is no longer a need for a dedicated circuit. Consequently, the requirement has been deleted.
15. Refrigerators
2015 Code — separate circuit required for each receptacle installed for a refrigerator
2018 Code — separate circuit only required for mandated refrigerator receptacle
The existing wording of 26-722 required a separate circuit for each receptacle installed for a refrigerator. This requirement is now relaxed by permitting a dedicated circuit to supply more than one refrigerator receptacle. It has also been revised to more clearly state that the requirement only applies to receptacles mandated by 26-712(d)(i) for refrigerators in kitchens. The requirement does not apply to refrigerators installed in other locations.
Here are some health benefits LED lights provide.
Businesses everywhere are making the switch to eco-friendly, high-efficiency LED lighting for their commercial properties. These low maintenance bulbs can help reduce energy costs as well as your carbon footprint, but did you know that there are also several health benefits associated with LED lighting exposure? Our bodies have very natural reactions to different kinds of light. Natural light tells us when to wake up, and exposure sunlight can help to boost your mood and reduce anxiety. So what can LED light do for you? Here are 5 health benefits associated with LED lighting.
Studies suggest that time spent in LED lighting can reduce the occurrence of headaches when compared to classic fluorescent lighting. We’re all familiar with the flickering of fluorescent bulbs that can cause headaches and worsen migraines. With LED lighting, this flickering doesn’t occur, so you’re less likely to suffer worsened headaches.
There is research to suggest that when used in a learning environment, LED lighting is associated with higher learning performance. These bright and steady bulbs make it easy to see and focus even in large classrooms, so it’s no wonder that students may perform better when using LED lighting. In fact, it’s all the more reason to use LED lighting in an office or work environment!
Sun lamps are typically used to treat seasonal depression and anxiety, due to the fact that natural sunlight has a positive impact on mood and stress relief. LED lighting is also associated with stress relief. These bright and highly efficient light bulbs really light up the world around you, allowing you to relax. Some studies even suggest that time spent in LED light can help reduce anxiety, making it a great choice for commercial offices and retail locations.
Since LED lighting is associated with reduced anxiety and a higher ability to focus, it makes sense that working in this light could make you more productive! Many organizations that made the switch to LED bulbs have noticed increased productivity in their employees.
By mimicking natural light, LED bulbs can help expose you to the bright, constant light that your body craves to balance its circadian rhythm. This can mean a more constant sleep schedule and a better night’s rest. A healthy circadian rhythm can help you enjoy more productive days and more restful nights.
Are you in need of electric or lighting services for your commercial facility? LuMar Electric is here to help! With over 15 years in the industry, LuMar has an array of equipment to handle the logistics of any in-house job. We also frequently provide solutions to property managers and upcoming developments. LuMar Electric provides services in all of the Atlantic Provinces with the HQ in Moncton, NB. Also, check us out on Facebook or Instagram !
Team LuMar !
Created by : Mario A. LeBlanc
Gearing up for a day of home electrical troubleshooting? Slow down there cowboy, some electrical issues require expert attention. Though some common electrical issues are simply the result of bad habits, others are deeper issues in need of professional repair and troubleshooting. Which projects are DIY-friendly and which require the help of a pro? Keep your home and family safe with the help of these tips from LuMar Electric.
Troubleshooting Home Wiring? These Projects are Generally DIY-Safe
That is, provided the requisite knowledge to perform them.
Embarking on a DIY Endeavor: Know the ‘Golden Rule’ of Electrical
DIY electrical troubleshooting can be dangerous. However if you live by this ‘golden rule’ of electrical work, you’ll stay safe: You cannot suffer a shock if no electricity is present. Before beginning any electrical sleuthing or repair, always:
Outside the Comfort Zone: Electrical Issues that Require a Pro
These repair issues should always be attended to by a licensed electrician:
Scratching your head over an electrical circuit issues? Better to be safe than sorry. Keep your home and family safe with the help of LuMar Electric today.
This blog is made available by LuMar Electric for educational purposes only to give the reader general information and a general understanding on the specific subject above. The blog should not be used as a substitute for a licensed electrical professional in your province or region. Check with city and provincial laws before performing any household project.
Your Friends at LuMar Electric :)
CAFI - Schneider Homeline
An arc-fault is an unintended arc created by current flowing through an unplanned path. Arcing creates excessive heat that can easily ignite surrounding materials, such as wood framing or insulation, resulting in a hazardous fire.
-Arcing in installed electrical wiring from physical damage such as:
Today’s arc-fault technology, available in both circuit breaker and receptacle form, has been proven via the use of arc-fault circuit breakers, saving lives and property as an industry standard for more than 15 years. The technology has gone through several iterations to reduce unwanted tripping due to non-hazardous arcs that are part of the normal operation of appliances and devices in the home.
Both AFCI circuit breakers and receptacles are designed to detect both series and parallel arcing conditions. However, an AFCI receptacle will not protect against parallel arcing upstream of the device as the current path does not flow through the AFCI receptacle. A combination AFCI circuit breaker will protect the entire circuit.
In simplified terms, arc-fault circuit protection is required in 15A and 20A-125V circuits supplying receptacles throughout the home with the exception of those outlined in the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code.
Be reminded that enforcement and interpretation of the code is up to the discretion of the provincial and local inspection authority having jurisdiction.
The new Rule 26-724(f) of the 2015 Canadian Electrical Code requires all branch circuits in dwelling units supplying 125V receptacles rated 15A or 20A to be protected by a combination-type arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI), except that branch circuits supplying receptacles installed in accordance with Rules 26-710 (f) and 26-712(d) (i), (iii), (iv) and (v), and those supplying only one receptacle for the connection of a cord-connected refrigerator or sump pump, are exempt from the requirement for arc-fault protection.
Mario A. LeBlanc, co-founder
