In an electrical circuit, series circuits require components to be arranged one after the other, while parallel circuits connect components in branches. As an electrician, it is recommended to use parallel circuits in houses to avoid affecting other appliances in case of failures. Electrical circuits use a power source, conductors, switches, loads, and fuses or circuit breakers to function.
In an electrical circuit, there are two types of circuits commonly used: series circuits and parallel circuits.
- Series circuits: In a series circuit, the components (such as light bulbs or resistors) are arranged one after the other, with current flowing through each component in the same path. If one component in a series circuit fails or is disconnected, the entire circuit is broken and no current can flow. An example of a series circuit in a house is a string of Christmas lights where if one bulb burns out, the entire string goes out.
- Parallel circuits: In a parallel circuit, the components are connected in branches, with each component having its own separate path for current to flow. If one component in a parallel circuit fails, the other components will continue to work because each branch is independent. Parallel circuits are commonly used in houses because they allow multiple appliances to be connected to the same power supply without affecting each other.
Therefore, as an electrician working in a house, it is important to use parallel circuits for the house wiring. This ensures that if one appliance or light fixture fails, it will not affect the others, minimizing the chances of homeowners calling to complain about the wiring.
There are five essential things that electrical circuits use to function:
- Power source: This provides the electrical energy required, such as a battery or a power outlet.
- Conductors: These are materials, usually metal wires, that allow the flow of electrical currents.
- Switches: These control the flow of electricity by either opening or closing the circuit.
- Loads: These are the devices or components in a circuit that use electrical energy, such as light bulbs or motors.
- Fuses or circuit breakers: These protect the circuit from excessive current and prevent damage or fires.