Safety is the most crucial factor in a residential area where children, pets, and other people often roam, play, and have fun. You might have seen some pipes or tubes on the walls, too. What do you think those pipes are? They are electrical conduits which are also known as protective tubes.
They are the unsung heroes of a household that safeguard you from various issues like short circuits and more. These pipes ensure your electrical systems stay reliable and secure by safeguarding them from damage, moisture and other dangers.
Electrical conduit in Toronto can withstand hazardous environmental conditions. This blog post highlights the significant benefits of electrical conduits and explains how they are the key to safe residential wiring.
How are Conduits a Key to a Safer Residential Area?
Protection Against Physical Damage
Conduits provide a reassuring layer of protection, shielding electric wires from any potential physical damage that could lead to accidents.
- It can protect the wires from accidental bumps or drops, helping prevent wires from breaking or short-circuiting.
- The insulation of the wires can easily break down, and that too for a number of reasons. Overloaded operation of the cable and deterioration due to aging can wear away the insulation and expose wires.
- Conduits can also act as a barrier, as they help prevent rodents and insects from gnawing on wires.
Fire safety
- Exposed wires, especially when vulnerable to moisture and other damages, can pose a significant fire hazard. Electrical Conduits in toronto play a crucial role in preventing such situations, enhancing the safety of your home and providing you with peace of mind.
- In cases of shorts or overheating, if an electric conduit is not used, it can cause fire. However, if a conduit is used, it can help prevent the arc from spreading to other wires or materials.
- If there is any fire case, conduits can slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving residents more time to escape.
Grounding and Bonding
- Conduits play a crucial role in grounding and bonding the electrical system. Grounding and bonding are essential to safeguard people from electric hazards.
- In residential areas, children and pets may not pay attention to wires and may get electric shocks.
- Conduits ensure a safe electrical flow while protecting against electrical shocks and minimizing the effect of shocks.
Neat Organization and Aesthetics
- Conduits are helpful in keeping wires organized and concealed. But make sure that you know that choosing the correct size is really important.
- They can help keep wires in place while preventing tangling.
- Picture your furnished home with aesthetic furniture and interior. But then there are wires, which can make it look weird.
- Using conduits can significantly improve the appearance of your home, making maintenance easier and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your living space.
- Imagine your furnished home with aesthetic furniture and interior, now with neatly concealed wires; it looks even better.
Future expansion
Whenever outlets, switches, or other electrical components need to be added, conduits can provide a framework for future wiring needs, too. It does not require extensive remodelling.
Durability and longevity
- Conduits can withstand harsh weather conditions and other environmental factors.
- They are typically made from durable materials such as PVC or metal, ensuring long-lasting protection for the electrical system.
- They can be used for years without degrading their quality.
Types of Electrical Conduits Used in Residential Areas
Flexible metal conduit (FMC)
As this conduit’s name suggests, it is easy to bend and is often used for indoor wiring that requires bending. It is also often used for short and exposed runs in a household and can be used in areas such as water heaters, garbage disposers, and more.
Caution: These are used in dry locations only!
Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
This is one of the lightest conduits, easy to cut and bend. It is also the least expensive type of metallic conduit used in residential, commercial, and industrial wiring systems.
- This conduit has various sizes or diameters; you can choose it according to your needs and preferences.
- Like FMCs, these are also easy to bend.
- These can be exposed to interior installations in garages or basements.
PVC Conduit
This is one of the most durable conduit materials. It can be used to protect wiring from damage caused by moisture, impact, or other hazards. This non-conductive conduit is lightweight and easy to work with.
Electrical non-metallic tubing (ENT)
This conduit is less expensive than similar metal conduits and is capable of protecting wire and cable from abrasions.
Rigid metal conduit (RMC)
RMC is heavy-duty and rigid metal tubing, mostly used outdoors. This conduit is made of thick walls and threaded tubing. It can be used in dry, wet, and corrosive locations, making it a versatile option.
Liquid-tight flexible metal conduit (LFMC)
This is a flexible metal conduit with a plastic coating. It is used with sealing fittings to make it watertight. It’s typically used with outdoor equipment, such as air conditioning units. You have the flexibility to use it in dry and wet locations.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Conduit
Size
Before buying a conduit, you must consider its size. Wires should fit perfectly in a conduit to keep it untangled.
Installation environment
Consider the installation environment before buying a conduit. If you want to install it outdoors, you must choose weather and UV-resistant wires. But if you seek conduits for a corrosive environment, choose the one with corrosion protection.
Cost
When searching for conduits, compare the costs of various supplies to find the best deals. Additionally, when installing conduits, compare electric services in Toronto to ensure you get quality work.
Material
Choose material according to the requirements. If you want a conduit for outdoor installation, you can choose the one according to that. And likewise, if you seek indoor use conduit, you can choose materials like PVC and more.
In a Nutshell!
Electrical conduits are indispensable for safe and reliable residential wiring. They provide physical protection, fire safety, grounding and bonding, organization, durability, and more, making them essential components. They are a must in any residential area for safety. Whenever choosing an electrical conduit in Toronto, you must consider the factors mentioned in this article to ensure you get the best deals.