1. What are the voltage requirements for BGE?
2. Why do circuit breakers trip?
3. Does all equipment need to be grounded?
4. Who is responsible for the electric system grounds?
5. How do I protect my electronics and other electric equipment during a storm?
6. What are the most common causes of outages?
7. If part of my business is without electricity, is the problem mine or BGE's?
8. Why do lights flicker? Is this OK?
9. How can I protect my computers and other critical systems?
10. How can I best protect my computer from lost data?
11. Why do PC monitors flicker?
12. What is EMF (Electric and Magnetic Fields)?
13. What is the EMF effect on humans?
14. Does EMF affect electronics?
15. How can BGE's Power Quality and Reliability program help my business?

What are the voltage requirements for BGE?

BGE supplies a variety of voltages, as described below. The voltages are defined in The Maryland State agency regulations and compiled in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), under Title 20 “Public Service Commission”, section 20.50.07.02.

Voltage Limits:

Secondary Voltages
The voltage at the utility's service terminals, as installed for each customer, shall be maintained within the limits specified in the table below. If a utility adopts any standard voltage not included in the table, it shall advise the Commission in order that the Commission may establish appropriate voltage limits. When 3-phase service is provided, the utility shall exercise reasonable care to assure that the phase voltages are balanced.

1. Industrial Customers
   For service rendered principally for industrial or power purposes, the voltage may not exceed 71/2 percent above or 71/2 percent below the standard nominal voltages as filed in the utility's rules.
2. Sales For Resale
   For service rendered to public utilities and others for resale, the nominal voltage shall be as mutually agreed upon by the parties concerned. The allowable voltage may not exceed 71/2 percent above or 71/2 percent below the agreed upon nominal voltage without the express approval of the Commission.
3. Special Contract Exceptions
   The limitations in §§B(1) and B(2), above, do not apply to special contracts in which the customer specifically agrees to accept service with unregulated voltage.

Exceptions to Voltage Requirements
It will not be considered a violation when voltages outside of the prescribed limits are caused by any of the following:

1. Action of the elements
2. Service interruptions
3. Temporary separation of parts of the system from the main system
4. Infrequent fluctuations not exceeding 5 minutes' duration
5. Other causes beyond the control of the utility

Why do circuit breakers trip?

The main reason for circuit breakers tripping is 'overloading', which is a power draw increase above their nominal rating. Most common causes are overloaded outlets (too many things plugged in and operating at the same time, such as hair dryers and portable heaters) or a short circuit. It is quite rare for a circuit breaker to be defective.

Does all equipment need to be grounded?

The main reason for grounding is safety. Not all appliances need to be grounded. Always follow the manufacturer's recommendation. Never remove the grounding wire or pin, or replace a grounded plug with an ungrounded type.

Who is responsible for the electric system grounds?

The electrical system in your facility is the owner's responsibility. The system must be grounded in accordance to national and local codes. Consult a licensed electrician if you have questions.

How do I protect my electronics and other electric equipment during a storm?

While surge suppressors and battery backups are recommended for use at all times, there is no effective protection against a direct or close by lightning strike. The best protection is to unplug the electronic equipment during thunderstorms.

What are the most common causes of outages?

Outages are most often caused by trees (especially during storms, high winds and ice storms), cars hitting utility poles, wildlife touching high voltage wires, or problems with utility equipment. It is recommended that you keep handy flash lights, BGE phone numbers, and an old fashioned phone (your phone system will go down unless you have an UPS on it). You may consider a back-up generator.

If part of my business is without electricity, is the problem mine or BGE's?

First check for tripped breakers in your own electrical panel and reset them. If the electricity is not back, call BGE. The problem is most likely related to the wires serving your facility.

Why do lights flicker? Is this OK?

Lights flicker when there is a sudden change in the power level. It is quite infrequent, but it can happen a lot during a strong storm. In some instances, lights flicker quite often when a large load such as an air conditioner, elevator or a local portable heater kicks on. If that is the case, it is advisable to contact a licensed electrician to check the circuits and rewire if necessary.

How can I protect my computers and other critical systems?

The first step is to asure that you have separate electrical circuits and breakers for the critical equipment, and they have proper ground both inside and outside the facility. The next step is to purchase a high quality battery backups (manufactured by a well known and reputable company, backed up by strong damage protection warranties) and even a small back-up generator. Also, install high quality surge suppressors on other electronic equipment, such as monitors, printers, copiers, fax machines, HVAC controllers, alarm systems, etc. Add special surge suppressors for phone lines coming in directly into your equipment.

How can I best protect my computer from lost data?

Save your work frequently while doing it. Back up your data on external media such as zip disc or CD-R.

Why do PC monitors flicker?

PC monitors rarely show flicker. If you observe flicker, first try to correct the problem by changing the 'Refresh frequency' in the display settings according to the user's manual. Next, eliminate any close-by appliances such as fans or coffee makers. Lastly, try moving the monitor away from any electrical cables (extension cords) or walls that may contain electrical circuits.

What is EMF (Electric and Magnetic Fields)?

Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) are produced by power lines, electrical wiring, and electrical equipment. EMFs are invisible lines of force that surround any electrical device. Electric fields are produced by voltage and increase in strength as the voltage increases. They are present even when the equipment is switched off, as long as it remains connected to the source of electric power. Magnetic fields result from the flow of current through wires or electrical devices and increase in strength as the current increases. Both electric and magnetic fields decrease as the distance from the source increases.

What is the EMF effect on humans?

Even though both electric and magnetic fields are present around all electrical equipment and power lines, most recent research has focused on potential health effects of magnetic fields. Epidemiologists have been able to identify important risk factors for cancer, including cigarette smoke and benzene. However, in the case of EMF exposure, the evidence for an association with disease has been inconsistent. Some scientists who have studied the issue say that if a relationship exists at all between EMFs and certain cancers, the risks is very small. When the risk is small, or if there is no risk, epidemiological studies can be difficult to interpret. For more information see the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences web site.

Does EMF affect electronics?

Normal EMF rarely affects electronics. Occasionally, strong magnetic fields may create PC monitors to flicker.

How can BGE's Power Quality and Reliability program help my business?

Our team of nationally recognized Power Quality and Reliability experts has handled over 1000 customer cases during the past 15 years. Our expertise focuses on analysis and recommending value based remedial actions. Contact the Power Quality Experts at BGE.