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Proper Uses For Electrical Tape

By Autumn Lockwood

Republish: EasyPublish™ Published: 27Aug2011 Word count: 2343 Viewed: 194 time(s) Get Free Content For Your Site

Even though contacting a electrician is often the best option when there are electrical repairs that need to be made, electrical tape is often used around the home for minor repairs. However, unfortunately it is often used improperly, sometimes with tragic results. Knowing when to use electrical tape, as well as when it should not be used, is something every homeowner should know. Here are some guidelines on how to properly use electrical tape around your home.

Electrical Tape is NOT the Same as Wire Nuts

Using electrical tape instead of wire nuts is a common mistake made by do-it-yourself electricians. When working on the wiring in outlets, junction boxes, or light switches, you should always use wire nuts instead of electrical tape for permanent connections. When the electrical current passes through these connections, heat is naturally produced. Over time, this level of heat will simply cause electrical tape to deteriorate, creating a very unsafe condition. Although there are a few varieties of electrical tape manufactured to withstand this kind of heat, it is always a better idea to use wire nuts. If you need assistance making these repairs, contacting a electrical contractor is the best option.

Use for Minor Cord or Wire Repair Only

Although electrical tape is frequently used to repair cords or wires that have become damaged, there are certainly limitations to this kind of usage. If the inner insulation of the wire remains intact, then electrical tape can usually be used to repair small defects in the wire's outer sheath. However, if the cord or wire is more severely damaged, electrical tape should never be used to repair it. It is also not advisable to use electrical tape to repair any cord or wire that is located in close proximity to fabric, rugs or any flammable materials.

Always Purchase High Quality Tape

Electrical tape is one home repair material that you do not want to scrimp on. Although it can be tempting to purchase inexpensive tape at discount stores, you would be much better off to buy high quality tape from a home improvement or hardware store. Not only will the tape be of higher quality, but it is also likely to be newer. Since electrical tape does degrade over time, it simply does not make sense to purchase low quality tape that might already be showing its age. If the tape you use is already old before you buy it, there is no way your repairs will last as long as they should. Always using fresh, high quality tape will help ensure that your electrical repairs are safe ones.

Proper Electrical Tape Application Tips

Applying electrical tape too loosely is a common mistake made by inexperienced do-it-yourself electricians. Because this tape is designed to perform properly when it fits closely to what it is been applied to, it is important to always stretch the tape a bit as you apply it. Not only will this improve the overall adhesion and overall performance of the tape, but it will also provide better insulating properties. It is also important to play it safe when you are using electrical tape in close proximity with insulating materials. For example, if you use electrical tape to help insulate water pipes during cold weather, never cover the taped areas with insulation. When trapped between hot water pipes and insulation, electrical tape could become hot enough to cause a fire.

So, if you are going to be using electrical tape, make sure that you use it correctly. And, if there is ever a doubt as to what you are doing, be sure that you call in a electrician.

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