How to choose household electrical wires? Is BV or BVR better for household electrical wires?

2025-09-09 Leave a message

During renovations, plumbing and electrical renovations are often concealed. Concealed wiring cannot be replaced at will, and poor quality can also pose safety risks. These two key points are emphasized most when it comes to household wiring. So, how should one choose household wiring? Those who have done their research beforehand should know that there are two common types of household wiring: BV and BVR. So, which of these two is better?


Tips for Choosing Household Wiring


1. Clear Markings: Our country has standards for electrical wiring. The manufacturer's name, model, and rated voltage should be clearly marked on the surface.


2. Smooth Appearance and Thick Core: Beyond just looking at the markings, pay attention to the appearance of the wire. A qualified wire should be smooth and flat, with no signs of wear on the insulation and sheath. The markings and text should be clear and not greasy to the touch.


3. Plastic Cover: The plastic cover plays a crucial role in electrical wiring. Choose wires with a bright, shiny plastic sheath and a finer texture.


4. Before purchasing wires for lighting and air conditioning, be sure to understand the intended use of the wires. For lighting, wires with a diameter between 1.5 and 2.5 mm square are ideal, and flexible wires are suitable for lamp leads.


These are some general purchasing tips. While they are not definitive criteria, they can serve as a guide to assist in your selection process.


Differences between BV and BVR Wires


Both are made of the same material, copper-core PVC insulated wire. However, BV wire is a harder single-core rigid wire, while BVR is a softer multi-core flexible wire. Wires of the same area can carry the same current.


BV:


Advantages: Due to its stiffness, it has a long service life and is resistant to oxidation. It is generally used in concealed installations.


Disadvantages: The wire is difficult to straighten after bending, and can be easily damaged by repeated bending and straightening.


BVR (also called secondary wire):


Advantages: The wire is softer and is often used in temporary power distribution areas. The laying angle requirements are significantly reduced, making it suitable for cornering and conduit routing.


Disadvantages: Short service life, rapid oxidation, prone to core breakage and localized overheating, requiring prompt replacement.


Concealed wiring is a concealed process, so BV cable, which has a longer service life, is generally preferred. For household electrical wiring, wires ranging from 1 to 6 square meters are generally used.


BV1-BV6 Wire


1.5 square meters are primarily used for lighting circuits;


2.5 square meters are primarily used for lighting, sockets, switches, and grounding;


4 square meters are primarily used for water heaters and air conditioners;


6 square meters are primarily used for circuits;


10 square meters and above are primarily used for main incoming wiring.


The above points primarily illustrate the differences between BV and BVR. There's no definitive answer as to which is better. Different wires serve different purposes, so consider the performance advantages of each cable to meet your specific needs.