When constructing or renovating a home, various elements like painting, woodwork, flooring, or furnishing are essential but manageable, even if errors occur. These mistakes can be rectified without posing significant risks. However, errors in electrical work are different: not only can fixing them be costly, but they can also be life-threatening. Despite knowing the dangers, people often make common mistakes in their electrical setups due to a lack of technical knowledge. But worry no more — let’s dive into how to avoid these errors and keep your home safe.
Understanding Why Mistakes Happen in Electrical Work
Electrical work is a technical task often carried out by skilled professionals. However, since not everyone is knowledgeable about this field, it can be hard to judge if the work is being done correctly. This can lead to errors, but don’t worry! By understanding a few key points in simple terms, you can effectively monitor and ensure safe practices.
Step-by-Step Guide to Avoid Common Electrical Mistakes
1. Choosing the Right Conduit Pipes
When setting up electrical wiring, ensuring the quality of the pipes used is essential. Ask your electrician for a 12 to 15 kg bundle of conduits, which are strong enough to withstand weight without collapsing. Avoid using lighter options, as they can break and fill with concrete during construction, leading to significant problems later.
Also, ensure the conduits go about 2 cm deeper into the wall than the surface level. If they aren’t installed deep enough, you’ll face issues during plastering and painting, which could result in visible imperfections.
2. Installing Electrical Boxes Properly
The boxes where switches and outlets are mounted should be made of high-quality, GI (galvanized iron) and powder-coated material. This ensures longevity and prevents rust. These boxes should be placed about 3 mm inside the wall surface to maintain a smooth finish after plastering and painting. Additionally, make sure they are installed perfectly straight to avoid misaligned switch plates.
3. Choosing High-Quality Wires
Opt for wires with an FRLS (Fire Retardant Low Smoke) rating for enhanced safety, as they do not catch fire easily and produce minimal smoke. Though slightly more expensive, they provide extra protection. Branded wires are preferable, as non-branded ones may not meet rigorous safety standards.
When wiring through conduits, use only up to 60% of the available space to ensure easy maintenance and avoid overheating. For example, in a 1-inch pipe with a 25 mm space, only occupy 15 mm with wires.
4. Avoiding Joints in Wires
Never join two wires inside a conduit, even temporarily. Over time, heat can weaken the adhesive on insulating tape, making the joint unsafe. If a wire falls short, replace it with a new, continuous length to maintain safety and reliability.
5. Using Correct Wire Thickness
For light fixtures and fans, 1.5 mm wires are usually sufficient. For power sockets, 2.5 mm wires work well, while larger appliances like air conditioners may require 4 mm wires for better load handling. Always plan the wiring thickness based on the appliance’s load requirements to avoid future issues.
6. Setting Up the Distribution Box (MCB Panel)
The MCB (Miniature Circuit Breaker) box should be installed flush with the wall surface to ensure a neat appearance. Choose B-type MCBs for general home use, and C-type for sensitive or high-load appliances like air conditioners or refrigerators. Proper load distribution is crucial to prevent overloading and ensure the safety of your household.
Final Thoughts
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your home’s electrical work is not only efficient but also safe. Your safety and peace of mind are worth the extra effort!
