If you fancy yourself a bit of a hands-on homeowner, you’re no stranger to small (or large) home improvement projects. You might be handy with a wrench and swing that hammer like a professional, but exposed wires should make you nervous!
Are you wondering, “Can I use electrical tape to cover exposed wires?” You may do so very carefully, but in our experience, it’s much smarter to give exposed wires a wide berth. – they can shock you and spark fires!
As a top electrician in Muskogee, OK, we share below how experts use electrical tape the right way.
Why Exposed Wires Need Prompt Attention
Why are exposed wires such a danger? Pinning down an answer is easier when you know the basics of how wiring works.
Wires feature outer jackets that serve as insulation materials thanks to good heat resistance. This insulation prevents the electric current from flowing out of the wire into nearby conductive materials. However, when you bend or move electrical wires too much, this outer jacket can crack or strip off, which means there’s nothing stopping the electrical current from leaving the wire!
Damaged wires are a hazard for several reasons:
- Exposed electrical wires can cause a nasty shock. You know better than to touch an exposed wire. What about pets, kids, and unsuspecting passersby?
- Electricity means heat. Without the outer jacket, ground and hot wires can touch. The contact may spark a dangerous fire.
- Power will suffer. With damaged wires, appliances may short circuit. They don’t receive enough power through exposed wires.
Can I Use Electrical Tape To Cover Exposed Wire in Muskogee, OK?
So, can I use electrical tape to cover exposed wires, or do I need to call an electrician?
When used properly, electrical tape is perfectly safe to use on exposed wires. In fact, that’s what it’s designed for: to prevent electric shocks.
Electrical tape works by providing an insulation layer, keeping the electrical current in the wire. Most electrical tape types work fine in indoor and outdoor applications, but it’s never meant as a permanent solution. Only use temporary fixes like electrical tape until you can call an electrician in Muskogee, OK, for professional repair.
Are you planning to give electrical tape a try? Which type? For example:
- Vinyl: This vinyl product is the most common type of electrical tape found in homes. It offers good moisture protection and insulation.
- Mastic: Mastic tape has a spongy center and is very bendable, making it a great choice for tight spaces where you need flexibility. It features excellent UV and moisture resistance, so it’s suitable for outdoor electrical work.
- Rubber: Rubber electrical tape sticks to itself. Its water resistance makes it a popular pick for moist environments.
- Varnished cambric: This tape is made from woven cotton fabric and features an oil primer. Its thickness makes it ideal for use around sharp edges.
How To Temporarily Repair Exposed Wires With Electrical Tape
Can I use electrical tape to cover exposed wires? Yes! Here’s what the experts do:
- Locate the exposed wire. You can recognize exposed wires by their missing outer jackets. Once you’ve found the wire, determine the extent of the damage. If the insulation between the neutral and positive wire looks damaged, stop what you’re doing and call an electrician.
- Turn off the electrical breaker. Do not skip this step. You could get a serious electric shock when working on the wire.
- Cut a piece of electrical tape to fit the exposed wire. Wrap the tape around the wire, making sure not to leave any part of the wire exposed.
- Maintain the tape. Electrical tape becomes frayed or starts to fall off over time. Add another layer of tape.
Uncomfortable working on exposed wires? We don’t blame you! Call our Muskogee electricians instead – we have electrical safety down to a science.
Stop Wondering “Can I Use Electrical Tape To Cover Exposed Wires?” and Call Us in Muskogee, Oklahoma
Can I use electrical tape to cover exposed wires? The short answer is yes, but there’s a long list of reasons that “being careful” might not be enough to keep you safe during this task. If the thought of working around wire connections rightfully makes you nervous, calling our expert electricians at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is always a better idea.
Our Muskogee electricians have the tools, experience, and know-how to repair any electrical damage to your home. To schedule service or get advice on replacing home electrical wiring, call us today!
