Power Quality Audits are comprehensive assessments of the supply and consumption of power and electrical systems of a facility or business. These audits are uniquely designed to identify problems and possible hazards associated with the quality of electrical supply and consumption, such as voltage fluctuations, power surges and sags, harmonics, in addition to other factors which could significantly impact the performance of electrical equipment and the overall efficiency of operations. Power Quality Audits complement Power Quality Analysis services, as the audits rely upon the specialised equipment, methods and data collected from Power Quality Analysis.
Who Can Do Power Quality Audits?
Like with other specialised electrical services, PQAs should only be conducted and overseen by registered electricians, electrical consultants and engineers, who have the qualifications and training to carry out all duties safely and efficiently. Similarly, for services like Power Quality Audits, only qualified individuals will be able to operate the equipment needed for monitoring and decipher the data for detailed reports following the service. While Audits are not required annually by law, they are required periodically to demonstrate health and electrial safety standards and compliance in the workplace, or for insurance purposes, as insurers may request proof of a recent audit for coverage or continuing a policy.
How Long Does a PQA Take?
Depending on the size of the space and electrical supply, Power Quality Audits (PQAs) can take as little as 1-2 days, or a few weeks (if significant data and equipment monitoring is required). These services are done with minimal disruption to the workplace, and in the case of longer monitoring, the equipment can be left safely during the period, with reports provided quickly after the data is collected. The data is used to inform the audit report, which detects any power quality issues, variations or abnormalities that would otherwise not be noticeable immediately or to the human eye. For more info check out our guide to power quality analysis testing.
What Do PQAs Outline?
The audit report will provide extensive details into any reductions in in voltage (sags or dips), increases in voltage (surges), distortions in electrical waveforms (harmonics) – typically induced by heavy use of computerised equipment or lighting systems, any changes in supply frequency (frequency variations) and inefficient use of electricity (power factor issues). Likewise, any issues will be identified and documented for potential problems of power quality, such as poor maintenance of electrical equipment, outdated infrastructure, or issues in the local grid system; in addition to recommendations for any improvements needed which may involve installing power conditioning equipment power factor correction units, filters and voltage stabilizers, replacing or upgrading electrical components, implementing energy-saving systems and improving grounding.
Power Quality Analysis for Energy Efficiency
The reports provided can be used for reference in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of a business’s electrical systems, informing health and safety practices in the workplace and demonstrating compliance with regulatory and insurance standards. Similarly, Power Quality Audits can be particularly useful for businesses seeking to improve their energy efficiency, reduce downtime and have more consistent energy costs by ensuring that power supply is stable and efficient.
Power Quality Audits Ireland
If you want to get the supply and consumption of power in your facility or business audited then you need a PQA. Give us a call on 01-9602636 or contact us online for more info about our power quality auditing service.
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