Low working voltage in coal mines is one of the many conditions that must be given continual attention. Loss of voltage means a proportional loss in power. Since the quantity of dc power is obtained by multiplying the number of amperes times the number of volts, it follows that for a given amount of power if the volts are lowered the amperes are increased, and the increase in amperes results in an increase in power loss in the mine circuit. Lower operating voltages result in heavier currents in the dc motor circuits, thus heating the motors, cables, and circuit wiring and causing loss in motor speed, inefficient operation, and increased maintenance cost.