Modernization of the electrical installation is becoming a necessity in many areas, having a decisive impact on safety and energy efficiency. Taking this into account, we see that the TN-C power supply system, combining neutral and protective conductors into one PEN conductor, does not meet modern safety standards. In the following article, we will discuss the most important issues, explaining why it is worth investing in a change to the TN-CS system, present important legal aspects related to the division of conductors, and present the modernization process step by step.
Check cables and wires at the Onninen wholesaler
Is it really necessary to modernize the electrical installation from TN-C to TN-CS?
Cables and wires should be properly matched in every electrical installation so that everything works properly - both in terms of functionality and safety rules. This is extremely important in every building.
One of the most important aspects is the modernization of the electrical installation from the TN-C system to the TN-CS. This is primarily due to the fact that the older TN-C network system combines neutral (N) and protective (PE) conductors into one PEN conductor. This creates a very high risk that in the event of a damaged conductor, the safety of the household members may be at risk. Such installations are simply defective.
In such a TN system, an independent protective conductor is necessary, which occurs in the TN-CS system. Its use ensures higher reliability, because even if one of the conductors is damaged, it does not affect the others in any way. This is therefore of great importance for increasing the level of protection against electric shock.
As if it were, let's remember the standards and regulations regarding electrical installations, which state that the TN-CS system should be used in new buildings - houses, apartments and other facilities, but also in existing ones. Here, however, appropriate modernization is necessary so that the installation cables are properly selected. But this change is not only about safety and standards, it is also about greater energy efficiency, including the appropriate voltage, because better matched cables improve the quality of power supply. The electrical installation simply works better.
Division of conductors into PEN, PE and N in the light of the law
The division of conductors into PEN and PE and N is therefore an absolutely key issue in the context of regulations concerning the safety of electrical installations. This cannot be underestimated, because the TN-C system, because the PEN conductor combines the functions of the neutral (N) and protective (PE) conductor, which in practice creates a very high risk, especially when damaged. So let's not wait for such problems to appear, but let's invest in a reliable system with a separate protective PE conductor. This is in accordance with applicable standards, such as PN-IEC 60364.
The building law, as well as the regulations of the Minister of Infrastructure, leave no doubt on this issue, imposing the obligation to ensure safety standards in electrical installations. This means de facto that in new buildings and those undergoing modernization, it is necessary to make electrical installations in accordance with standards, which in this context means the use of the TN-CS system.
Modernization of electrical installation from TN-C to TN-CS. Step by step
Upgrading an electrical installation from TN-C to TN-CS is a task that requires both precise planning and compliance with applicable standards. It is certainly worth consulting an electrician in this situation, but it is always worth knowing how this process is done step by step. Many people who have never dealt with this topic, publish various posts on this topic, including on various forums, and ask what to remember during this work, so we will try to answer these doubts.
The first step should be to assess the technical condition of the existing TN-C installation, as well as its compliance with current regulations. Next, the PEN conductor should be divided into two separate protective PE and neutral N conductors. It is very important that this division takes place in the main switchboard. This is where the PEN conductor is divided into PE and N.
The next step is to replace the cables and sockets so that they are properly matched to the TN S system. It is equally important to check the continuity of the PE protective conductor, as well as to perform measurements of the installation to ensure that the modernization was carried out correctly. Electrical equipment is useful here.
At the very end, we should prepare technical documentation and a measurement report. It confirms that the modernization was carried out in accordance with the standards. Remember that the entire process must be performed by a qualified electrician with authorizations. He has the necessary knowledge, equipment and experience. Electrical engineering has no secrets for him. Electricians will advise and cope with such tasks.
Modernization of the installation from TN-C to TN-CS is absolutely possible, so we should not wonder whether it is worth doing. This question has only one answer - of course, yes! It is important everywhere - this applies to apartments, houses and other facilities. These are benefits in every area, and above all, high functionality and safety. A separate protective conductor is of great importance here.