Understanding power quality

Power quality is a relatively obscure concept, but as electronic appliances take over the home it may become a residential issue as well. Some of the efficiency gained through improvements in appliances is lost in the transportation of the electricity that runs them. Additionally, utilities must invest in filters and capacitors to clean this dirty power. Poor-quality power also causes transformers, cables, and other transmission equipment to burn out more quickly, increasing costs. Included are a power quality primer and a discussion of the new fluorescent bulbs.