lights dimming on new installation

[vectraj]

Been asked to see why customers lights were dimming slightly (flickering) when kettle or other high wattage equipment is being used. At first I thought it was maybe loose meter tails? But its a new installation (approx 6 months old) anyone any ideas?

 

[davesparks]

Being new doesn't prevent there being a loose connection, in fact these days it makes it more likely

 

[vectraj]

True yeah, its an old type kilowatt hour meter aswell. Maybe could do with updating to the new digital readout type from the distribution company?

 

[snowhead]

What did you find when you;

Checked the connections into the C.U
Checked all the connections onto MCBs / RCBOs?
Checked Neutral connections, including main switch to bar.

Checked the voltage as load was being applied at, the relevant MCB and on both sides of the C.U main switch?

 

[vectraj]

Last week I just checked the connections on the tails, I'm back on tuesday to have a more in depth look.

 

[ian.settle1]

Is it a new install or is it a rewire, if it was a rewire was it doing this before it was rewired?

 

[davesparks]

True yeah, its an old type kilowatt hour meter aswell. Maybe could do with updating to the new digital readout type from the distribution company?

What difference would that make to your problem?

 

[vectraj]

What difference would that make to your problem?

Well just that if the installation is 6 months old and the meter is 40 years old its gonna be a weak link in the whole system. Provided
that all other connections are tight and secure.

 

[davesparks]

Well just that if the installation is 6 months old and the meter is 40 years old its gonna be a weak link in the whole system. Provided
that all other connections are tight and secure.

In what way will it be a weak link? I don't understand how you think a meter will cause the symptoms you have described?

I'm sure the meter operator will be laughing at you when you explain why you want them to change the meter too!