Block E – Electrical/Electronic Sytems

Trends

Electro-mechanical controls are still in common use; however, there is a move towards electronic controls such as thermostats, relays and primary controls. There is an increased use of Electronically Commutated Motors (ECM) and EMS such as programmable thermostats, as they are more efficient. Variable speed drive motors permit greater comfort, energy savings and reduced noise.

Related Components

Controls (thermostat, aquastat and mixing), loads (motors, transformers and damper motors), sealants, fasteners, fans, wiring, interlocks, switches.

Tools and Equipment

Hand tools, power tools, powder-actuated tools, measuring and testing equipment, PPE and safety equipment.

Task 10 Installs electrical and electronic systems.

Context

Electrical and electronic systems are more user-friendly. They save fuel, work more efficiently and quietly, require less maintenance and provide increased comfort.

Sub-task E-10.01 Selects controls and components.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-10.01.01 knowledge of types of controls
• E-10.01.02 knowledge of types of loads
• E-10.01.03 knowledge of sequence of operation of controls
• E-10.01.04 knowledge of application of controls and components
• E-10.01.05 knowledge of relevant sections of codes such as building, plumbing, electrical and safety codes
• E-10.01.06 knowledge of basic electronic theory as it relates to system components such as electronic controls, ECM and hydronic mixing controls
• E-10.01.07 knowledge of basic electrical principles as they relate to system operation
• E-10.01.08 ability to understand the system and its design

Sub-task E-10.02 Selects location of controls and components.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-10.02.01 knowledge of positioning of controls, loads and wiring
• E-10.02.02 knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
• E-10.02.03 knowledge of relevant sections of electrical, building and oil codes
• E-10.02.04 ability to position controls, loads and wiring
• E-10.02.05 ability to measure distances
• E-10.02.06 ability to recognize physical and environmental limitations of controls and loads

Sub-task E-10.03 Installs controls and components.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-10.03.01 knowledge of fasteners and supports
• E-10.03.02 knowledge of manufacturers’ specifications
• E-10.03.03 knowledge of relevant sections of codes such as building, plumbing, electrical and safety codes
• E-10.03.04 knowledge of basic carpentry skills
• E-10.03.05 ability to install wire
• E-10.03.06 ability to follow wiring diagram
• E-10.03.07 ability to fasten controls and components

Task 11 Tests electrical and electronic systems.

Context

Oil heat system technicians are responsible for testing related electrical and electronic systems for safety and functionality.

Sub-task E-11.01 Cycles appliance controls.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-11.01.01 knowledge of operation of controls
• E-11.01.02 knowledge of sequence of operation of system
• E-11.01.03 ability to operate appliance controls

Sub-task E-11.02 Checks operating and safety controls.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-11.02.01 knowledge of system operation
• E-11.02.02 knowledge of circuits
• E-11.02.03 knowledge of set points
• E-11.02.04 ability to override operating components to verify safety controls
• E-11.02.05 ability to trace circuits
• E-11.02.06 ability to verify that controls operate to system specifications through full cycle

Sub-task E-11.03 Checks accessories and components.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-11.03.01 knowledge of types of accessories such as zone valves, booster pumps and air cleaning devices
• E-11.03.02 knowledge of types of components such as circulators, blower motors and burners
• E-11.03.03 knowledge of system operation
• E-11.03.04 knowledge of circuits
• E-11.03.05 ability to use multi-meters and diagnostic equipment
• E-11.03.06 ability to test circuits, accessories and components
• E-11.03.07 ability to interpret readings
• E-11.03.08 ability to verify that circuits, accessories and components operate to system specifications through full cycle

Sub-task E-11.04 Sets up operating parameters.

Supporting Knowledge & Abilities

• E-11.04.01 knowledge of system specifications
• E-11.04.02 knowledge of operating controls such as thermostat, aquastat and fan control
• E-11.04.03 ability to adjust controls
• E-11.04.04 ability to adjust equipment and components to meet system design