What is the common power source for appliances in fire investigations?

The common power source for appliances in fire investigations is alternating current (AC) supplied by the electrical utility company. This is due to the widespread use of AC power in residential and commercial buildings, where most electrical systems are designed to operate using this type of current.

AC power is typically utilized for its efficiency in transmitting electricity over long distances, making it the standard choice for electrical utilities. In fire investigations, appliances like lights, tools, and diagnostic equipment often rely on a direct connection to the electrical grid, which is predominantly AC. Understanding that AC is the norm helps investigators when evaluating electrical sources in the context of fire incidents, as many appliances are specifically designed to use this type of power.

While other options such as DC from batteries, solar power systems, and diesel generators can be used in specific situations or for specific types of equipment, they are not as commonly employed across the board in the context of fire investigations as AC power is.