Talk:Overcurrent

Normal and harmless

AIUI overcurrent is current above the rating of the device, eg cable. Overcurrent in domestic wiring is normal, and does not in most cases cause any risk of fire or melting.

1. Many appliances consume a gulp of high current when switched on
2. Fuses & breakers dont act until substantial overcurrent occurs, and it is common, especially in British ring circuits, for short term overcurrent to occur. And since it does not cause any increase in fire, it causes no risk IRL. This is due to cable thermal capacity, and to some extent the difference between rated ampacity and real world ampacity.

Tabby (talk) 11:13, 31 March 2008 (UTC)