10 Tips for Wires and Cables
Wires and cables are crucial carriers for power transmission. However, improper use can pose significant safety hazards. The following 10 practical tips will help you use electricity safely.
1. Check for the 3C Certification
Approximately 35% of counterfeit cables on the market lack the 3C certification. When purchasing wires and cables, be sure to check for the clear CCC mark on the cable body. Products without this certification often use substandard materials, presenting serious safety risks.
2. Select the Right Specification Based on Power
For high-power electrical appliances such as air conditioners and water heaters, copper-core wires with a cross-sectional area of ≥2.5mm² are required. For ordinary sockets, 1.5mm² copper-core wires are sufficient. Using an inappropriate specification can easily lead to short circuits and even fires.
3. Choose the Appropriate Type According to the Environment
In damp areas like kitchens and bathrooms, flame-retardant sheathed wires (such as ZR - BVR) should be used for their waterproof and flame-retardant properties. For underground laying, armored cables must be used to resist pressure and corrosion.
4. Standardize Wiring Operations
Direct connection of copper and aluminum wires can cause electrochemical corrosion, potentially leading to fires. Transition terminals should be used for connection. All joints must be enclosed in junction boxes to isolate moisture and dust.
5. Watch Out for Overloaded Circuits
A hot socket panel or a soft plug is a sign of circuit overload. Immediately reduce power consumption. Smart sockets can monitor power in real-time and automatically alarm when the threshold is exceeded.
6. Identify Aging Characteristics
When the insulation layer cracks (with cracks >1mm) or turns yellow and hardens, the wire is severely aged. If the insulation resistance is lower than 0.5MΩ, it should be replaced immediately.
7. Follow Special Scenario Standards
Temporary wires on construction sites should be erected at least 2.5 meters above the ground. Using flower wires instead of cables is strictly prohibited to avoid electric shock accidents caused by vehicle crushing.
8. Dispose of Waste Products Properly
Wrap the ends of discarded wires with insulating tape. When recycling, keep at least 15cm of the outer sheath to prevent sparks from metal friction.
9. Check Product Labels
Examine the outer packaging, certificates of conformity, and printing on the wire body. Verify information such as the manufacturer, 3C logo, and specifications. Blurred or incomplete information often indicates counterfeit products.
10. Approach Prices Rationally
Wires of the same specification have similar costs. Products with extremely low prices often have issues with cutting corners, and choosing such products may bring greater safety risks.
Keep these tips in mind, make the right choices, and use wires and cables properly to safeguard electrical safety and avoid losses to life and property.