Overloading is also called "overcharging." Electrical wiring has its own current-carrying regulations. If overloaded, thin wires carrying high currents can easily cause fires. For indoor exposed wiring, the ambient temperature should not exceed 35°C. Selecting wires within their safe current capacity will prevent overheating. When power consumption exceeds the safe current capacity, the wires will heat up, and the amount of heat generated is proportional to the square of the current intensity.
What is wire overload?
The main causes of wire overload are:
1. Selecting new wires that are too thin or have a small cross-section;
2. Adding arbitrary loads to old wires;
3. Improper fuse selection. A thinner fuse will cause frequent power outages, hindering power supply; a thicker fuse will cause the fuse to trip during overload, causing overheating and damaging the wire insulation, which can also easily cause fires.
What precautions should be taken when maintaining electrical wiring?
1. Protect wires from moisture, heat, corrosion, or damage.
2. Inspect wires after a certain period of use and replace any defects promptly.
3. Avoid overloading wires.
4. Regularly check the electrical wiring and wiring in your home, and perform maintenance and repairs promptly.
5. If wiring in older buildings is found to be flooded or wet, especially if it is aged and dilapidated, call an electrician immediately for repairs.
6. For wiring that is easily soaked by floodwater, call an electrician to relocate it and install elevated, moisture-proof measures.
7. If a power outage occurs during rainy days, immediately shut off the power, have an electrician investigate the cause, and assign someone to maintain the wiring.
Home renovations are essential, especially in older homes. Wiring, though small, carries significant risk. Many fires are caused by aging wiring, improper wiring configuration, or poor-quality wiring. Therefore, exercise caution when selecting and installing wiring!
These are some tips for maintaining electrical wiring and cables. I hope you find them helpful.
