Electrical installation: our complete guide to a safe network

Electricity: understanding the basics for a safe installation

Electricity is a complex and potentially dangerous phenomenon. It is important to understand the basics for a safe installation:

• Voltage: in Switzerland, the standard voltage is 230V.
• Current intensity: the intensity of the current is measured in amperes (A).
• Electrical power: electrical power is measured in watts (W).
• Earthing: earthing is an essential safety device that discharges leakage currents.

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Electrical installation: designing a network suited to your needs

The first step in a successful electrical installation is the design of a network that meets your needs. It is important to take into account the following 3 elements:

• The area of your home or premises: the size of your space will determine the number of electrical circuits required.
• The number and type of electrical appliances you use: energy-hungry appliances, such as an oven or an induction hob, require dedicated circuits.
• Your future needs: anticipate the evolution of your needs by providing additional sockets and circuits.

A precise wiring diagram is essential to visualise the entire network, its connection and its distribution. This will make professional intervention and any inspections easier if needed.

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Electrical panel: the nerve centre of your installation

The electrical panel is the heart of your electrical installation. It centralises all the circuits and ensures the protection of people and property thanks to circuit breakers and residual current devices. A well-organised and correctly sized electrical panel is essential for the safety of your installation.

The circuit breaker and the RCD are two essential protective devices in an electrical installation, but they have distinct and complementary roles:

The circuit breaker:

• Role: protect electrical circuits against overloads and short circuits. An overload occurs when an appliance or the heating system consumes more current than the circuit can handle. A short circuit occurs when there is direct contact between the live wire and the neutral wire.
• Operation: the circuit breaker is an automatic switch that cuts off the current when it detects an overload or a short circuit. It is calibrated for a maximum intensity (for example 10A, 16A or 20A). If the current intensity exceeds this value, the circuit breaker trips and cuts off the circuit to prevent wires overheating and fire risks.

Imagine a garden hose. The circuit breaker is like a tap that automatically closes if the water pressure becomes too high, thus preventing the hose from bursting.

The residual current device (RCD):

• Role: protect people against current leaks and electrocution. A current leak occurs when part of the electrical current escapes from the normal circuit, for example through a person touching a faulty appliance.
• Operation: the RCD continuously compares the intensity of the current entering the circuit with the intensity of the current leaving. In normal conditions, these two intensities are identical. In the event of a current leak, a difference in intensity is detected (even a small one) and the RCD instantly cuts off the current, thus preventing electrocution. The sensitivity of the RCD is expressed in milliamperes (mA), generally 30mA for domestic installations.

Let's take the garden hose image again. The RCD is like a leak detector that cuts off the water supply as soon as it detects a small water loss, even a drop.

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Electrical infrastructure: the key elements of a high-performance network

A high-performance electrical infrastructure relies on key elements:

• Electrical cables: the choice of cables must be suited to the power of the appliances and to current standards. Installing quality equipment ensures you a longer service life.
• Electrical sockets: the number and type of sockets must be adapted to your needs.
• Switches: switches allow you to control lighting and other electrical appliances.
• Light fittings: the choice of light fittings must be adapted to the use and the desired atmosphere.

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Electrical standards in Switzerland: respecting the rules for a compliant installation

In Switzerland, electrical installations must comply with strict standards, notably the Low Voltage Installations Standards (NIBT). These guarantee the safety of people and property. It is imperative to call on a qualified electrician to ensure the compliance of your installation.

In addition, the owner of an electrical installation is required to present a corresponding safety report on request. This document certifies that the installation meets the requirements of articles 3 and 4 of the Ordinance on Low Voltage Installations (OIBT) at the time of its establishment.

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Electrical appliances: choosing high-performance and safe equipment

The choice of your electrical appliances has a direct impact on the safety and performance of your installation. Favour quality appliances that are certified and comply with current standards in Switzerland.

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Electrical installation expert: the importance of calling on a professional

Calling on an electrical installation expert is essential to guarantee the safety and compliance of your network. A qualified electrician will be able to:

• Design a wiring diagram suited to your needs.
• Choose the appropriate materials and equipment.
• Carry out the installation in a professional manner.
• Inspect and certify the compliance of the installation.

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Electrical services: find the right professional with EDIREX

EDIREX connects you with qualified and experienced electricians in Switzerland. Our platform allows you to:

• Compare quotes free of charge and without obligation.
• Choose the electrician that best suits your needs.
• Benefit from personalised advice and support throughout your project.

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Energy renovation: optimising your electrical installation to reduce your consumption

The energy renovation of your electrical installation can help you achieve significant energy savings. A qualified electrician can advise you on the solutions best suited to your situation, such as installing LED light fittings, setting up a home automation system or optimising your electrical panel.