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KW: Should you run extension cords in the wall when mounting a TV?
Introduction
Bringing power to remote electronic devices can be accomplished by using extension cords. Yet, installing extension cords within walls raises safety concerns for homeowners.
Before embedding an extension cord inside your wall, you must consider the type of cable you choose and comprehend the associated hazards.
In this article, we will delve into the safety of running extension cords in the wall and outline what types of cables are permissible and what types of cables should be avoided.
What Types of Cables Can I Install in My Wall?
When installing extension cords inside walls, it’s crucial to use cables rated for in-wall utilization. These cables are constructed to be secure and fire-resistant when placed within walls, ceilings, and floors. In-wall-rated extension cords are usually composed of superior materials, such as PVC or Teflon, making them appropriate for use in enclosed spaces. Popular in-wall rated extension cords are Cat 5, CoAX, HDMI, and power outlet cables.
What Types of Cables Should I Not Install in My Wall?
Although in-wall rated cables are secure for use in walls, some types of cables must never be placed within walls. These include standard electrical cords not rated for in-wall utilization and cords not designed to handle the power required for a specific application. For instance, a standard lamp cord is unsuitable for use in a wall as it’s not engineered to handle the heat generated by high-power devices, such as air conditioners or heaters. Moreover, it’s important to avoid using damaged or frayed cords, as they can pose a safety risk if installed on the wall.
How to Identify In-Wall Rated Cords
When searching for in-wall-rated extension cords, it’s essential to look for cables that are labelled accordingly. These cords will usually be marked as “CL2” or “CL3” rated, which indicates that they are approved for use in walls and abide by the safety standards set by the National Electrical Code (NEC). Furthermore, in-wall rated cables generally have a jacket or outer layer that is flame-resistant and fire-retardant, making them safer for use in walls.
Types of On-Wall Jacks for Wires
Apart from in-wall-rated cables, various types of on-wall jacks can be used to conceal wires in your home. These jacks include Cat 5 jacks, CoAX jacks, HDMI jacks, power outlet jacks, and audio jacks. Each type of jack is designed for use with a specific type of cable, so it’s crucial to choose the correct jack for your specific application.
- Cat 5 Jacks
Cat 5 jacks are designed for use with Cat 5 cables, which are frequently used for data and Ethernet applications. These jacks can be utilized to route data and network cables through walls and floors, making them an excellent solution for home networking and home theatre installations.
- CoAX Jacks
CoAX jacks are intended for use with CoAX cables, which are often used for cable television and cable modem applications. These jacks can route cable TV and modem cables through walls and floors, making them suitable for home theatre installations.
- HDMI Jacks
HDMI jacks are engineered with cables, frequently used for high-definition video and audio applications. These jacks can be used to route HDMI cables through walls and floors, making them an excellent solution for home theatre installations and connecting high-definition televisions and other devices.
- Power Outlet Jacks
Power outlet jacks, a pivotal component in electric systems, are ingeniously crafted to make routing power cables through walls and floors as seamless as possible. These jacks provide an additional source of electricity and effortlessly power appliances, tools, and other gadgets that lie far from existing outlets, making life easier.
- Audio Jacks
On the other hand, Audio jacks offer a simple solution to routing audio cables through walls and floors, connecting speakers, amplifiers, and other audio components in a home theatre system, delivering a blissful high-quality audio experience.
Other Options for Wire Concealment
Wall jacks aren’t the only options in the quest for concealing wires. Conduits, tube-like coverings that route wires through walls, ceilings, and floors, and wire moulding, a decorative trim used to hide wires along walls and ceilings, are two other discreet ways to keep the wires in check, creating a tidy and organized space.
Conclusion
Although a convenient solution to powering appliances, tools, and electronic devices, the utilisation of extension cords in walls requires the proper type of cable and a thorough understanding of the safety risks involved. On-wall jacks, in-wall rated cables, and other wire concealment options guarantee a safe and functional extension cord installation, ensuring peace of mind.