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40
FROM LITTLE THINGS...
Solar microinverters convert DC to AC.
SolarBusinessServices director Nigel Morris
explains how the technology is changing solar
business models.
42
DO THE DISHES
Domestic dishwashers are practically standard
equipment these days. David Herres outlines
procedures for diagnosing and repairing them.
44
THE DROP
It might have been some time since you learned
about voltage drop, so what are the requirements
and the calculations?
48
COOLING OFF
Those roof-top systems that rely on water evaporating
just don’t measure up compared with modern
air conditioning.
52
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN
Solar panels from China are not necessarily inferior, as
they often use Western technology under licence.
54
DON’T BLOW A FUSE
In solar systems, fires are caused by bad connections
rather than fault currents. Bob Harper explains.
24
CONNECTION
ELECTRICAL
CONTENTS
Regulars
66
NECA NEWS
107
TRAINING DIARY
113
TRADESTUFF
Features
28
FEED-IN FACTS
As ‘distributed generation’ increases, there’s work to be
done on power quality by electricity suppliers and the
solar industry as a whole.
32
THE ROAD AHEAD
Standards committees are buzzing with activity, and
Gary Busbridge sees parallels in business opportunities
for contractors.
36
MAKING THE SWITCH
Do we need RCDs on all circuits, including stoves and hot
water units, above and beyond the rules?
Cover story
DON’T BREATHE IN
Exposure to asbestos is an ongoing concern,
but there are some younger members of the
industry who have no idea what to look out for.
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