(no subject)

[Glen Zook]

Having been employed by one of the largest power
companies in the US (Texas Utilities) for over 10
years until "downsized" a couple of years ago:

TU, and most of the electric companies in the United
States now try to run an ambient line voltage of 125
volts +/- 1%.  In reality, they usually run from 123
to 127 volts, with the higher voltage being more the
norm, especially in hotter weather.  This is so that
the air conditioning systems get enough voltage to
operate without pulling more amps than necessary.
Pulling of more current then reduces the available
voltage even more due to IR drop.

There are exceptions, but, usually those are the REA
and some of the smaller electric companies.

By the way, if you purchase 130 volt light bulbs from
places like Home Depot, Lowe's, etc., they will last
much longer than the grocery store, WallMart, etc.
bulbs that are rated at 120 volts.  Often, the 130
volt bulbs are actually a bit cheaper.  As the line
voltage approaches 130 volts, the life expectancy of
the 120 volt bulbs can become as much as one-tenth the
life when at 120 volts.  You can't tell the difference
in light output.

Glen, K9STH


--- Gerald Lemay <w1id at FCGNETWORKS.NET> wrote:

I'm not sure where the idea that line voltage is
higher today than it was years ago came from. As I
remember it from my shop class in high school back in
the early 60's it was 117 volts. I would like to know
where I can find the darn specifications for my own curiosity

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