ElectraSim App Updates
Release notes and practical introductions to recently added tools.
Electrical Guides and Articles
Clear explanations of wiring, components, regulations, and electrical safety.
How to Wire a Ring Main Circuit: The UK Ring Final Circuit Explained
The ring main is uniquely British and widely misunderstood. This guide explains exactly how a ring final circuit works, why it uses 32 A protection with 2.5mm² cable, how spurs work, and what BS 7671 requires.
Intermediate Switch Wiring: How to Control a Light from Three or More Locations
Want to control one light from three switches — at the bottom of the stairs, the top, and a landing? That requires an intermediate switch. This guide explains two-way and intermediate switching with clear wiring diagrams.
Short Circuit vs Open Circuit: What's the Difference?
A short circuit and an open circuit are opposite faults — one causes too much current, the other causes none. This guide explains both, their real-world causes, and how to identify each.
What Is an RCBO? The Difference Between RCD, MCB and RCBO Explained
An RCBO combines overcurrent protection with earth leakage detection in one device. This guide explains how it works, how it compares to MCBs and RCDs, and when you should use one.
5 Common Electrical Wiring Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)
Reverse polarity, missing earths, overloaded rings — these five wiring mistakes are found in thousands of UK homes. Learn what they are, why they're dangerous, how to spot them, and how to test your own circuits safely.
Ring Circuit vs Radial Circuit: What's the Difference?
Ring circuits and radial circuits are the two ways to wire socket outlets in UK homes. This guide explains how each works, when to use each, cable sizes, spur rules, and how to simulate both topologies in a free browser-based circuit simulator.
Live, Neutral and Earth Wires Explained
What do the brown, blue and green-yellow wires actually do? This complete guide explains the roles of live, neutral and earth in UK wiring, what happens when they're mixed up, and how to safely explore all three conductors in a free circuit simulator.
How to Wire a Two-Way Switch: Complete Guide with Diagrams
Two-way switching lets you control one light from two locations — the classic staircase circuit. This guide explains exactly how two-way switch wiring works, the role of COM, L1, and L2 terminals, strapping wires, and how to simulate the full circuit in a free electrical circuit simulator.