Standard Wanted On House Wiring

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32349, 15 July 1970, Page 8

Standard Wanted On House Wiring

There should be a minimum standard for house electrical wiring, as it appeared that, in many new houses, wiring of too low a capacity was being installed, said Mr L. T. Griffith, at a meeting of the Central Canterbury Electric Power Board yesterday.

He was supported by the chairman (Mr L. F. Chamberlain), who said he knew of builders who were installing low-capacity wiring to save costs.

Mr Griffith said he had received criticism that the overload switches 'fitted to bouses were tripping out. It was obvious from this that house wiring was overloaded. The fault could be related to the higher loading imposed by modern electric stoves.

”1 tried in my own home, and by switching on all the stove elements, the switch cut out,” he said. “This sort of thing reflects on us, as our consumers are saying that while we want to sell them power, we are stopping them using it.” The general manager (Mr S. E. Slatter) said some people paid to have heavier-capacity wiring installed, but it was more common to have lower capacity wiring with a limiter switch. Mr Griffith asked if the board had any minimum standard. “We sell power, not houses,” said Mr Slatter. “We have no say as to how many points a person wants. All we say is that the wiring should go in without an electrical hazard. We recommend people not to cut themselves short, and inspect for safety.” “This is happening in new blocks of houses, particularly, ; and we are drawing the wrath of the residents,” said Mr Griffith. "Something can

be done. The average person wouldn't have a clue a$ to what is needed.”

The question had come up before in discussions among engineers, particularly in the case of the Housing Division of the Ministry of Works, said Mr Slatter. He would not be surprised if a cut-out operated with all stove elements on, as the load would be lOkw to 12kw. On the motion of Mr W. A. Newton, the board referred the question to the Electrical Supply Authorities Engineers’ Institute.