Loose connections If you have taken a distribution panel off for whatever reason, it is a good time to use one of the most important power quality tools, the screwdriver. Be sure to wear the proper safety equipment and to follow all necessary safety precautions. In most facilities, the current flows during only part of the day. Today, this current is often contains heat-generating harmonic currents. The heating/cooling/heating/cooling cycle and resulting expansion and contraction of the wires can cause the connections to loosen over time. This loosening increases the impedance of the connection, which further increases the heating effects. Tightening loose connections with the screwdriver can help reduce voltage drops and minimize the fire potential.