Useful Information

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an ‘RCD’ and why do I need it?

RCD stands for residual current device. It is a device which disconnects a circuit when it detects that the electrical current is not balanced between the energized conductor and the return neutral conductor. This imbalance can be caused by current leakage for example, through the body of a person who is grounded and accidentally touching the energized part of the circuit. Because this can result in a serious, possibly lethal electric shock RCD’s are designed to disconnect very quickly, to mitigate the harm caused by such shocks. We recommend all households have an RCD fitted.

2. How do I know if my home needs rewiring?

It’s likely that you may not be able to establish this without specialist advice. Contact a reputable electrical contractor and ask them to test and inspect your home.

3. How do I know it’s a bonafide Phase employee who arrives to do the work?

Phase employees wear a Phase uniform and carry an identifcation card. If you wish to arrange a password for a home visit, we can arrange that for you as well.

4. Do Phase repair electrical appliances?

No, sorry, we don’t repair what are known as ‘white goods’ such as fridges or ‘brown goods’ such as TV’s. We install the electrical systems that power these appliances, i.e. your wiring, cabling and sockets.

5. I just want one socket fixing in, can Phase do this?

Yes, but it may be cheaper for you to find a smaller, local contractor for a simple job like this. We generally work on projects involving a whole room, house or garden.

6. I want lights in my garden. How do I go about it?

We would advise setting yourself a budget, based on what you think you would like. We can then design a scheme to fit your budget. We can then install it all for you.

7. Can Phase give me general advice on how best to light the rooms in my house?

We can provide technical advice on the right type of lights and systems to achieve the results you want, but for advice on the actual style and effect of lighting, it’s either your own ideas or those of an interior designer. We will try to deliver the installation service that gives you the best options.

8. I want to save lighting bills and reduce energy consumption.
How should I go about it?

Have a look at our ‘energy efficiency’ page on this website. Also, various other websites have advice on all sorts of energy saving tips and ideas. ‘Act on CO2’ or ‘The Energy Saving Trust’ are two examples.

9. I want to fit security lighting. Can you recommend what types of lights are best?

The types of security lights you use are based on your own personal needs. There are lots of types on the market and it can be a personal preferance but certainly, we can suggest some features you may want and some ideas on which ones might be suitable.

Frequently asked questions Useful information