What is meant by “backfeeding” in electrical systems?

Backfeeding in electrical systems refers to the practice of sending current in the opposite direction in a circuit. This can occur when a power source, such as a generator, is connected to a circuit that is typically powered by the utility grid. When backfeeding happens, the electrical energy flows backwards through the wiring, potentially supplying power back into the utility lines or to other circuits that are not designed to handle it.

This can lead to dangerous situations, especially for utility workers who might be working on de-energized lines, as they could inadvertently come into contact with live electricity. Understanding backfeeding is crucial when working with generators and during power outages since proper precautions and connections must be made to avoid backfeeding into the grid.

The other options describe different electrical practices but do not accurately define backfeeding. Connecting a power source to multiple circuits relates more to distribution rather than the concept of backfeeding, transforming high voltage to low voltage involves voltage regulation rather than current direction, and overloading a circuit pertains to drawing excess power, not the direction of power flow.