Wire Management

What is it?

Electrical wiring is used in almost all buildings to power the electrical system. There are several types of electrical wiring, each of which contributes to the overall electrical system of the building. Triplex wire is used by utility companies to feed the power pole. It is an aerial cable, and typically connects power lines. Main feeder wires are black insulated wires which are rated for 125% of the load required. Similar to main feeder wires, panel feed wires are also type THHN, and are rated at 125 amps. Next, we have non-metalled sheathed wire, or Romex. It is coated in plastic, and is commonly found in your home. It typically has two or three conductors. Once your home is piped, you will also have single strand wire. It is insulated and multiple wires can be used in the same pipe.

How to Connect

Ideally, you should hire an electrician to do any electrical wiring in your home or office. If you are on a budget, however, and the job doesn’t seem that difficult, you may be able to do the electrical wiring yourself. To start, carefully remove the insulation. Next, make sure you have the correct connectors for the type of wire you are using. You also need to use correct terminal temperature and size ratings, and an oxide inhibitor on aluminum cables and wires. You can usually purchase these wherever aluminum wire is sold. Trim any exposed wire that you do not need as you work. This includes any part of the stripper wire that is not touching the connector or terminal. You also have to replace the insulation as required. Once you have connected the wire, mark the conductors.

Close-up of wires

Safety

Electrical wiring can be incredibly dangerous, and potentially lead to severe electrical shock or even fire. This can result in serious injury, and sometimes, death. There are several steps you can follow to make sure you are safe when working with electrical wire or operating near electrical wire. Make sure you avoid overloading circuits or outlets. Too many wires in the same outlet can easily lead to a fire. If you have children, you may want to place safe covers over all unused electrical outlets. Sticking a pen or other object into an outlet could lead to electrocution. Keep all unprotected cords out of the way of where people walk. Ideally, hide them behind a piece of furniture or in the wall. This will prevent tripping, overheating, and fraying. Never, under any circumstances, run a cord under a rug. This could cause a fire, because the rug prevents the cord from releasing its heat. You want to avoid placing pressure on the cords, because this could lead to a breakdown of the cord’s insulation. Power bars are useful to avoid overloading an outlet, but make sure you use CSA approved power bars. Extension cords should also only be used as a temporary connection. If you need permanent wiring, you should have additional outlets installed. If you are having any electrical problems, call in an electrician. Attempting to fix the problem yourself, especially if you are unqualified, could lead to serious injury.