Power distribution and heaters.

In summary, the conversation discusses the distribution of power in a household and how a room heater is able to receive the necessary amount of power. The speaker raises a doubt about the relationship between power distribution and the use of a high resistance coil in a room heater. It is explained that the resistance of a room heater is designed to produce the desired power output and when connected in parallel with other appliances, the total resistance decreases and the total current increases to provide the correct amount of power to the heater.
  • #1
siddharth5129
94
3
This has to do with a fundamental doubt I have always had about power distribution. Say you hook up a room heater to your power supply. How exactly does the power distribution detect an increased 'load' and accordingly allot more power to your room. The way I understand it, the generating substation sends you electrical power at a fixed voltage (say 220V ). So 'loading' the power supply with the high resistance coil of a room heater should cause a reduced current to flow (according to V = IR ), and accordingly, a much smaller power output (according to P = i(squared)R ). So heaters should be the least power intensive of all household appliances, but obviously they are not, so what am I missing?
 
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  • #2
a) The resisance of a room heater is neither high nor low, it is if fact just right to produce the desired power output according to P=IV=I2R=V2/R.

b) You connect the heater in parallel with all the other loads you have. So the current through the heater is in addition to whatever current is flowing through other appliances you have. When you connect things in parallel, their combined resistance is calculated as 1/R= 1/Ra+1/Rb, that is you add conductances (reciprocals of resistance). See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Series_and_parallel_circuits Note that R is always less than either Ra or Rb. So when you plug the heater in, total resistance as seen by the power supply decreases and the total current increases. If you go through the math you'll see it increases by just the right amount to produce the right amount of power in the heater.
 

1. How does power distribution work?

Power distribution refers to the process of delivering electrical energy from a power source to various devices and equipment. This is typically accomplished through a network of power lines and transformers that step down the voltage for safe use in homes and businesses.

2. What is the purpose of heaters in power distribution?

Heaters are used in power distribution systems to prevent electrical components from overheating. They help to maintain a safe operating temperature for the equipment, ensuring that it functions properly and does not become damaged.

3. What are the different types of heaters used in power distribution?

There are several types of heaters used in power distribution, including resistive heaters, inductive heaters, and capacitive heaters. Each type uses a different method to generate heat and is suitable for different applications.

4. How are heaters controlled in power distribution systems?

Heaters in power distribution systems are typically controlled by thermostats or temperature sensors. These devices monitor the temperature and activate the heaters when it falls below a certain threshold, and turn them off when the desired temperature is reached.

5. What are the safety considerations when using heaters in power distribution?

It is important to follow proper safety precautions when working with heaters in power distribution systems. This includes ensuring that the heaters are properly installed and maintained, and that they are not overloaded or placed near flammable materials. It is also important to regularly inspect and test the heaters to ensure they are functioning correctly.

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