Electricity FAQs: Supply Quality and Measurement
[ Last Updated 3 July 2007 ]
Supply Quality
Q. What Should I Do to Protect My Sensitive Electrical Equipment from Power Cuts or Surges?
A. The cost of power conditioning equipment can vary considerably. Talk to a licensed electrical worker or other competent person and compare the cost of the equipment with the value of the equipment to be protected.
Q. Does New Zealand Have a Different Power Supply Quality from Other Countries?
A. In general the answer is no. Although, in other countries it may not be as reliable and they can have different voltages. New Zealand's power supply quality is required to be a nominal voltage of 230 volts a.c. (with allowable fluctuations of up to 6%), and at a frequency of 50 hertz (within 1.5%), except for momentary fluctuations.
The New Zealand electricity supply system, however, does contain interference and control signals that are different from those present in other developed countries. Therefore, some electronic equipment not specifically designed for use in New Zealand may malfunction or be damaged by connection to the New Zealand supply system.
Q. What Codes or Standards Do I Need to Consult to Ensure Supply Quality is Maintained?
A. The requirement for quality of supply is contained in the Electricity Regulations 1997. Voltage, apart from momentary fluctuations, is required to be within plus or minus 6% of the nominal voltage, which is 230 volts. If you think you have a problem contact your electricity retailer. If you still believe you have a problem, contact the Energy Safety Service, PO Box 1473, Wellington Tel: 0508 377 4636, Free Fax: 0508 72 33 36 (SAFE ENERGY), Email: info@energysafety.govt.nz.
Measurement
Q. What Should I Do if I Think My Electricity Meter is Measuring Incorrectly?
A. Phone your retailer and ask to have the meter checked. You may have to pay for this service but if the meter is outside the tolerance of plus or minus 2.5% this money will be refunded. Your power bill will also be adjusted to reflect the true consumption.
Q. Are Electricity Meters Required to Be Checked for Accuracy?
A. Meters are required to register within the range of plus or minus 2.5%. This is specified when purchasing meters. Random checks are made on each batch purchased to ensure compliance. Manufacturing tolerance is generally 0.5%.
Other
Q. How Do I Make a Complaint about an Electrical Worker who has Done Poor or Unsafe Electrical Work for Me?
A. If a complaint does not relate to safety, you should first try to resolve the issue directly with the electrical worker. Safety complaints should be registered with:
Registrar
Electrical Workers Registration Board
Department of Building and Housing
PO Box 10 156
Wellington
Freephone: 0800 661 000
Fax: 04 378 3125
Website: www.ewrb.govt.nz
Email: john.sickels@dbh.govt.nz.
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