Closing in on shorter service interruptions (September 2006)
Have you ever come home to blinking digital clocks? Or, been in your office and had the lights go off for a few seconds and then back on?
- Momentary outages are actually a signal that PECO's electric system is working properly, thanks to devices called "reclosers." Before the installation of reclosers, or automated electric switches, service interruptions lasted much longer.
- Reclosers sense when trouble occurs and automatically open (stopping the flow of electricity) to isolate a problem. For example, if a tree branch momentarily touches a power line, the reclosers open then close an instant later. If the trouble is gone, they stay closed and you see only a momentary interruption, rather than a prolonged outage.
- If trouble persists, the reclosers will open and close up to three times. After that, the recloser is programmed to consider the problem permanent and remains open until a crew can repair the damage.
So what do our system enhancements mean for you?
- Prevents long service interruptions. Utility experts estimate that half of the problems on overhead power lines are temporary in nature. Using recloser technology prevents a significant number of prolonged outages.
- Prevents approximately 150,000 outages each year thanks to the use of reclosers.
- Protects valuable equipment. Reclosers can protect electric circuits and even substations from damage that could require substantial repairs and longer service interruptions.
So, the next time the lights blink, you won't be in the dark. Remember the recloser and the role this device plays in providing reliable energy to your home and business.
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