Identify a neutral fault - it may be life-threatening
Damaged electrical networks can experience a so-called neutral fault, which can be life-threatening. Therefore, a neutral fault should be taken seriously.
If you have received a message from us about a possible neutral fault, follow the instructions in the message. Switch off the electricity at the main switch. Once the electricity has been switched off, it is safe to remain in the property.
You do not need to contact us. Please wait until you receive confirmation from us that the issue has been resolved. After that, you can safely switch the electricity back on.
If you recognize signs of a neutral fault but have not received a message from us, contact Caruna's fault service (24/7).
We repair neutral faults as quickly as possible. During storms, repairs may take longer because our technicians may be busy repairing other serious damages to the electricity network.
Warning! If you touch metal devices or surfaces (such as an electrical cabinet, kitchen sink, water tap, or shower), you may receive an electric shock.
What to do if you suspect a neutral fault
- Switch off the electricity at the main switch.
- Be careful. Use dry leather or rubber gloves when switching off the electricity, as the metal enclosure of the electrical distribution board may be energized.
- For safety reasons, open the electrical cabinet and operate the main switch using only one hand. Keep your other hand, for example, in your pocket.
- Contact Caruna's fault service.
- The fault service is available 24 hours a day.
- During storms, there may be congestion on our fault service line due to a high volume of calls.
By these signs you can identify a neutral fault
- Three-phase electrical appliances, such as an electric stove or a kettle, may operate more efficiently or less efficiently.
- You may hear crackling or banging sounds from the electrical distribution board, and you may notice a burning smell. Please note that a steady humming sound from the distribution board is normal and is not a sign of a neutral fault.
- The brightness of lights may fluctuate, especially when other electrical appliances are switched on or off.
- Electrical appliances may become damaged.
If your lights flicker and the electricity switches on and off, the cause is most often brief power outages known as automatic reconnections. These temporary disturbances are usually caused by the electricity network's protection automation, which helps ensure that power distribution continues to operate safely and reliably.
How does neutral fault arise?
A neutral fault in the electricity network is usually caused by a tree falling onto a power line and breaking the support conductor of the low-voltage aerial bundled cable. In technical terms, this conductor is called a PEN conductor, a metallic cable that supports the phase conductors suspended between poles.
If the neutral fault occurs in the property's electrical system, good grounding can reduce dangerous touch voltages. If you would like to have the grounding of your building checked, please contact your electrical contractor.
What happens during a neutral fault?
As a result of a neutral fault, the voltages in the different phases deviate from their normal levels. One or two phases may experience overvoltage, while the other phases simultaneously experience undervoltage.
During a neutral fault, the neutral conductor in the electricity network breaks or becomes disconnected from its terminals. As a result, the voltage can vary between 0 and 400 volts, which may damage electrical equipment, particularly sensitive devices.
A neutral fault can pose a serious risk of electric shock and fire.