Most wires are constructed with copper or aluminum though there are many types wires used for electrical distribution. Exposed wires should not be taken lightly. You should treat the wire as if current is running through until you are certain the wire is not live. Today, we at Simon Electric would like to share some of the dangers of exposed grounding wires.
Grounding Wires Exposed
Most of the time, grounding wires do not have an electric current running through them and exposed wires and connections are fairly common. When there is a surge or electrical issue detected, the ground wire takes excess electric current away from electrical circuits. Where it can safely be neutralized, the grounding wire takes the electricity to the ground through a grounding rod or pipe. For electrical devices that may need to divert electricity from causing electrocution, modern electrical outlets have a third and circular plug is the grounding wire connection. Unless there is an electrical surge that causes electricity to flow through the grounding wire, the grounding wires are safe to touch.
How to Test Electrical Wires
Using a voltage tester, the electrical wires can be tested. In a variety of types and accuracy, voltage tests can be purchased at your local hardware store. More expensive volt meters will show you how much electric current there is and the voltage of the exposed wires, and cheaper voltage testers will simply tell you if there is electric current nearby the electrical wire. To determine if an electrical connection is safe to touch, these kinds of voltmeters are a great purchase for your home. Allowing for an accurate reading of the electricity to be conducted, the electricity will go through the meter when the wires are connected accordingly.
How to Repair Exposed Electrical Wires
A very common issue caused by home improvement projects and normal wear and tear are the loose or exposed electrical wires. When they are hidden within your home, the loose or exposed wires can be hard to identify. It is important to stay safe and follow the steps for repairing the wire if you do see an exposed electrical wire.
1) Start by turning off the electrical circuit. The electrical circuit to the exposed wire needs to be identified so the electrical connection can be turned off. This removes the hazard of electric shock. It is crucial before you handle the live exposed wires that you turn off the power.
2) Isolate the exposed wire. You can get a better idea of how the wire became exposed once it is isolated. If it is a loose electrical connection you should look for how the wire was pulled from the electrical fixture. If it is a puncture in a wire’s insulation you should look for possible nails or other hazards.
3) Electrical tape, typically black in color, should wrap around the electrical wire because of its low conductivity and durability to wear and tear over time. If the insulation between the positive and neutral wire is compromised, electrical tape should not be used.
4) Reconnect the loose electrical connections. Causing connectivity issues and potentially causing a fire hazard, the electrical connections in light sockets, switches, and outlets can become loose over time. They will need to be properly tightened and secured.
Electrical Wiring Services in Delray Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, Jupiter & Boca Raton & Palm Beach County Florida
Professionals can help ensure the loose or damaged wires are properly repaired. Call Simon Electric today for repairs that are safely and efficiently done.
