All About Conduit Systems for Your Home

Home electrical issues can be nightmares that disrupt daily life. From simple appliance repair jobs to malfunctioning light fixtures, the need to hire an electrician can be stressful, not to mention expensive. However, there’s a way you can ensure your roof stop leaks, keep pests out, reduce the risk of electrical fires and improve your home’s aesthetics all at once. This magical solution is called a conduit system.

So what is a conduit system exactly? It’s a system of pipes or tubes designed to protect your electrical wiring, protecting your home from potential electrical fires and hazards caused by pests and moisture. It’s a safe and effective way of reducing the chances of future electrical problems. Conduit systems come in different materials, such as metal, plastic, and flexible options, and can be used in any part of your home, both inside and out.

Planning to DIY a conduit installation? The first thing you need to do is to identify where you want to lay your conduit pipes and assess the space. You also need to be aware of the National Electric Code. A professional conduit installer can do this, but if you want to do this on your own, you need to be aware of the rules or take an online course. Once you’ve got that down, you can start adding elbows, connectors, boxes, and couplings according to your needs. To ensure safety, be careful not to overload your conduit pipes and always make use of brackets and hanger strips.

Conduit systems come in two basic types: rigid and flexible. Rigid metal conduit is the toughest and most popular option, perfect for areas with high mechanical stress like garages and basements. And despite it being rigid, it’s still flexible enough for installation in horizontal and vertical spaces. Flexible metal conduit is lighter and easier to install, but not as durable and robust as rigid metal conduit. It’s more suited to areas with light mechanical stress, like attics and ceilings. For exterior applications, the best option is non-metallic liquid-tight flexible conduits; these are resistant to molds and tree roots.

Another important aspect of conduit systems you need to know about is the different intrinsic properties of each type. PVC plastic conduit systems, for example, are excellent for outdoor installations and effective in sub-zero temperatures, but they may burn in case of fire. Rigid metal conduit systems, on the other hand, are incredibly durable, but they may be susceptible to rust if water or moisture comes into contact with them. So it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each type of conduit system and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Whether you’re planning to install a new electrical system or upgrade your old one, it’s important to consider the benefits of installing a conduit system. It can protect your wiring from pests and moisture while preventing potential electrical hazards. Now that you’ve got the basics down, the next step is to choose the right tools and materials and plan for the installation process thoroughly. Remember to prioritize safety and always consider the size and mechanical stress of the spaces where your conduit pipes will be installed. With a little effort, you can safeguard your home electrical system, giving you the peace of mind you deserve.