What are harmonics in electricity ?

Harmonics are currents or voltages with frequencies that are integer multiples of the fundamental power frequency,

  • which in the U.S. is 60 Hertz.

  • which in France is 50 Hertz.

If the first nammed fundamental frequency is 60 Hz, then the second is 120 Hz, and the third is 180 Hz.

Here are a few examples of issues that might be related to harmonics.

  • Flickering lights are a common symptom of a power quality issue.

  • Overheated transformers and tripped breakers could be a sign of harmonic issues.