What Are Underground Outlets And Why Are They Dangerous?
Typically, there are various ways in which you can run electricity into your home or your work site. For example, it can be delivered to your house through the use of power lines that are fitted on electric poles. The power lines from these poles will then be connected to the house circuit breaker box to regulate the electric current coming in. You can also get electricity delivered to your property through an underground outlet.
Over the last few years, the use of underground outlets to bring in electricity has become increasingly popular. This is particularly due to how handy the system is. For instance, if you are the type of person with many outdoor appliances that require constant electricity, you may be required to run an underground outlet.
But just like every other method out there, the underground outlet also comes with its own challenges. Therefore, in this article, we will be looking at what underground outlets do, why they are considered dangerous, and the various techniques used in their installation.
What Exactly is an Underground Outlet, And How Does it Work?
As the name suggests, an underground outlet is another type (albeit the least popular) of electrical wiring that involves the transmission of electrical currents through underground wires or cables. The sole purpose of this underground outlet is to help power your outdoor appliances. This type of outlet is a great alternative to outdoor or “above-the-ground” wiring, and it’s probably the least dangerous option out there, provided a professional electrician installs it.
Since running cables above ground can sometimes create an unnecessary tripping hazard, installing cables underground can help prevent this. Underground outlets will also make your yard/compound look very neat.
What Are The Types Of Techniques Used In The Installation Of Underground Outlets?
Installation of an underground outlet is something you can do all on your own. But then again, we will not encourage it because the installation can sometimes be tricky. However, to install an underground outlet, several techniques can be employed. We will briefly discuss them below.
1. An underground outlet can be done by laying cables directly into the ground. This technique is, by a long way, the most straightforward method.
2. Another technique is running the electric wires through rigid metal conduits.
3. The last method involves the installation of underground cables with PVC or metal tubing. This PVC or metal tubing aims to protect the cabling from water and other elements in the ground that can cause tripping hazards and other electrical accidents.
Use of Underground Outlets
As previously mentioned, underground outlets are becoming increasingly popular now. This system is utilized in both commercial and domestic properties. If you are a house owner and want to preserve your yard’s natural beauty, then an underground outlet will be extremely helpful in this instance.
1. Underground Outlet Application In Domestic Properties: When it comes to domestic properties, such as your home, an underground outlet will enhance your entertaining experiences and ensure your safety by reducing tripping hazards. Also, suppose you have numerous outdoor appliances that use electricity, such as outdoor lighting, outdoor bar, spa, security systems, heating, power tools, outdoor entertainment equipment, etc. In that case, an underground outlet will be greatly recommended.
2. Use of Underground Outlets in Commercial Properties: Underground outlets can be used as a wiring method in commercial properties such as your worksite and office. There is some outdoor equipment that will require the use of an outdoor source of electricity – hence, underground outlets! For example, you will need it to power your workplace surveillance cameras, security systems, burglar alarms, car park lighting, and electrically operating access gates.
Are Underground Outlets Dangerous?
One question we get asked frequently is, “Are underground outlets in any way dangerous?”
Well, the simple answer to this is yes. Like every other wiring method, underground outlets are equally dangerous, especially if professionals do not install them.
Many people have a general misconception that since the outlet is stored underground, it can never be vulnerable to damage and other outdoor weather conditions. However, the simple truth is that just because an outlet is placed underground doesn’t mean that the soil will be enough to protect it from damage.
As the popular saying goes, water and electricity don’t mix. Hence, underground outlets are usually faced with one particular problem: water encroachment. Water going into the ground is not even the problem here. I mean, we all know that water will always get absorbed into the ground. It becomes a problem when the cables underground do not have protective sheaths and waterproof tubing.
And if water constantly seeps through the soil and reaches these cables, that could be dangerous. If it doesn’t come in the form of an electrical shock, it will come in another form. And yes, they are all dangerous.
However, in order not to discourage you from running your cables underground, there are many ways in which you can avoid accidents that arise from underground outlets. And one of them is by hiring a professional electrician to oversee the entire installation process carefully.
Below are some things a qualified electrician will look out for before, during, and after the underground outlet installation.
1. Check how far the water sources (pools, fountains, etc.) are from where the outlets will be placed.
2. Put in waterproof switches and fixtures.
3. Determine whether the system can handle the extra load.
4. A qualified electrician will also ensure that the best cables are used in the installation.
Hire A Professional Electrician To Install Your Underground Outlet
As dangerous as underground outlets are if installed properly, there is bound to be no problem. And to ensure that they are installed properly, you need to hire a professional electrician to oversee the whole operation.
At CNA Electric, we are well-equipped to install all kinds of outlets in commercial and domestic properties. So, don’t hesitate to contact us and see how we can help you!