Dos and Don’ts of House Wiring

1. Dos and Don’ts of House Wiring How we do our house wiring is a critical decision. It can have a direct impact on the functioning and durability of our appliances. It also impacts our security and the safety of our family members. Faulty wiring can be a serious fire hazard. This is why there are rules and regulations that every builder must follow when wiring a building, whether for residential or industrial purposes. This also brings into importance the role of wires and cables exporters. Along with proper wiring we also need a reliable source. Today we have a number of exporters to choose from. However, understand your requirements before approaching a supplier. Here are some of the other dos and don’ts that you must follow when putting wires and cables in your home. DOs Switchboards A new home sometimes has switchboards that are loose or electrical outlets which are not covered by a board. This can be dangerous as it exposes the wires and cables underneath. Cover all switches and electrical outlets with a cover plate. Replace all damaged plates to ensure that all such points are covered up. If you have small children or pets, make your home safe for them. Make the switchboards child proof, put away any hanging cables and see that there are no exposed wires or cables. Always ensure that the electrical devices you are using are in good working order without exposed wires.

2. Placement Electrical devices should never be placed close to a water source like a tap. In bathroom where we often need switches over the washbasin, the switchboard should be at a sufficient distance and height to ensure that even accidental spatters do not reach it. Also, make sure that electrical boxes and switchboards are not close to a combustible material like wood. A spark inside the box can quickly spread and cause fire. You can use a metals or plastic box extension to avoid this. Grounding A three-slot outlet becomes necessary given the number of three-pronged plugs we use. However, you must always ensure that the slot is properly grounded. You can check this with a tester. Shading When used outdoors, ensure that your wires are under a shade and not exposed to the harsh sun or rain for a prolonged length of time. Storage: Wire and cables exporters emphasis that cables should be stored at a cool and dark place. If possible, cables should be stored in the manner they arrived from the manufacturer or as per directions. Some cables can withstand tight coiling, while some must be stored in loose coils. Replace your wiring if it is too dated, especially if you find that the wiring is still with aluminum. Modern homes today have copper wiring. Check the wiring if your mains are tripping too often. DON’Ts Never yank out electrical cords. This can damage both the plug and the outlet. Do not use a damaged cable even if you cannot see the wires jutting out. The damage could be internal, which be just as dangerous. Do not use sharp objects like nails to hang your cables. These can damage the cable. Do not leave cables hanging or pooling around on the floor. Apart from tripping, the cables can also overheat and become a fire hazard. Do not work on an appliance while it is plugged in.

3. Extension cords: Avoid the use of extension cords as much as possible. Even when you have to, keep it temporary. When using the cords straight out of their box, unwind them first and then use it. Never plug together two extension cords. Avoid overcrowding of the electrical box. This will cause overheating, which will again be a fire hazard. Instead install another box after ascertaining the size and requirement. Avoid cutting the wires too short in an electrical box. If the wire is short, use connectors to extend it. Do not obstruct the mains or the electric meter. These must be quickly accessible when needed. Never tamper with the electric meter. This is not just dangerous, it is also illegal. Make sure that it is at a secure and shaded place. Following the dos and don’ts when wiring your home is important. In addition, always buy from wires and cables exporters who carry proper certification.