When harmonic currents add up to excessive amperage, the neutral conductor can fail, leading to damaged equipment and destroyed data. Harmonic currents are effectively managed in a separate-neutral power system, available in a limited number of panel systems. Though harmonic currents are still present, the separate-neutral feature effectively manages them by not allowing the current to accumulate and become disruptive. It may seem insignificant that overhead lights flicker or task lights dim. However, these may actually be signs that a building's power supply is being over-used.
Harmonic currents cause more than just flickering lights, however.
The connection points within the power system are usually the first to suffer. Harmonic currents often are to blame for excessive heating within electrical raceways, as well as for failure of connectors and other electrical components. In panel systems, where connection points occur every few inches, the potential for connectors to fail due to unmanaged harmonic currents increases greatly. But it's not just building power and panel connections. Computers and other peripheral equipment suffer due to the effect of harmonic currents as well.