Which Type Of Cable Is Best For Outdoor Electrical Outlets?

Living in the UAE? You must be enjoying its nice weather. The UAE people also tend to live most of their lives outside. Many enjoy swimming pool parties at night, having a barbecue on the patio, or even just lighting up some fun and colourful fairy lights. Because of this, outdoor electricity is a must. However, before you start decorating your house with those lights or using your pizza oven outside, you need to select the best outdoor cable.

Should you use standard electrical cables outdoors?

The short answer is no. The cables commonly used inside homes cannot handle the actual outdoor conditions in the UAE.

What are the dangers of using indoor cable outdoors in the UAE?

The UAE can experience high temperatures, direct sunlight, and seldom dust storms. If you use indoor cables outside, they could get messed up, which could cause some real problems:

• Sun damage: The normal cable jackets can degrade and crack if exposed to high levels of UV radiation for a long time. This exposes the live wires and increases the risk of electrical shock.
• Waterproofing issues: Indoor cables are not built to handle moisture. Pool splashes, rain, or high humidity can cause rust and electrical issues.
• Extreme temperature changes: The significant temperature swings experienced in the UAE can damage the insulation of indoor cables, leading to potential short circuits and fires.

What features should you look for in a safe outdoor electrical cable?

Now that you know why indoor cables are a no-go, you can explore the essential features of the best outdoor cable for your UAE home:

• UV resistance: Find cables with a jacket that can handle harsh sunlight.
• Temperature resistance: Make sure that the cable can survive the extreme heat of the UAE climate. Most outdoor cables have a temperature rating printed on the insulation.
• Waterproofing: This feature is important, so choose cables with waterproofing ratings. Some common ratings include:
  • Water-resistant: This is good for some splashes or light rain.
  • Weatherproof: Can handle heavier rain and outdoor elements.
  • Submersible: Can be underwater all the time.

Pro Tip: When choosing the best outdoor cable to use, always select one that has a higher rating than what you expect to use. This gives you added safety and assurance.

What are the different types of outdoor electrical cables available in the UAE?

The most common ones include:

• SOOW cable: This type is multi-conductor and heavy-duty. Usually used in construction sites and outdoor events, it is durable, can handle oil and chemicals, and can take on rough weather.
• SJOOW cable: This is similar to SOOW cable but with an added layer of resistance to water for better protection in wet environments.
• Non-metallic (NM-B) cable with a water-resistant (WR) jacket: This option is a good choice for permanent outdoor installations like buried lighting or powering pool pumps. It is important to ensure the NM-B cable specifically has a WR jacket for outdoor use.

Choosing the right cable type depends on your specific needs. Also, consider its strength, flexibility, and its environment.

How do you choose the right size and gauge of outdoor electrical cable?

The size of a cable tells you the amount of current a cable can carry safely. It is measured in American Wire Gauge or AWG. If a cable is too small, it might overheat and become a fire hazard. Here is a general guide:

• Low-power applications (small appliances): 14 AWG or 12 AWG cable
• Medium-power applications (power tools, pool pumps): 10 AWG cable
• High-power applications (electric ovens, hot tubs): 8 AWG or 6 AWG cable

Important Note: these are just general recommendations. Check with an electrician or the manuals to see the right cable size.

Where can you buy high-quality outdoor electrical cables in the UAE?

You can easily find great electrical cables for outdoor purposes. Trusted electrical supply and hardware stores have all kinds of options. When buying, ensure the cable is certified by a reputable organisation like the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA).

What are the essential safety precautions for installing outdoor electrical cables?

Picking the right cable is vital for safety. But just as important is the proper installation. Here are some significant safety tips to put them in:

• Always consult a licensed electrician: Trust only the professionals for any electrical work. They have the experience and understanding to guarantee safe electrical cable laying.
• Maintain proper cable distance: Keep a safe distance between electrical outlets and water sources like pools or sprinklers. Consult local electrical codes for specific requirements on the wiring of homes.
• Use weatherproof outlets and enclosures: Standard outlets are not intended for outdoor use. Use those that are durable in any weather and have GFCI protection to avoid possible electrical shocks.
• Regularly inspect your outdoor electrical system: Check for any signs of wear and tear of cables or outlets. If the wires are discoloured, cracked or frayed, those are signs of underlying problems and should be addressed by a professional electrician.
• Protect cables from physical damage: Make sure cables are properly grounded and placed out of reach from lawnmowers, people walking, or other potential threats. Consider using a conduit for additional protection.

Power up safely: Choose the right outdoor cable for your needs

By using these tips and selecting the most suitable outdoor cable, you can have the benefits of electricity in your UAE outdoor area. Remember, safety is paramount. While this guide offers useful information, it is always much better to seek professional advice.

Trust the outdoor electrical experts at Yakka Technical Services LLC for help with picking, setting up, and looking after your electrical system. Our licensed electricians in the UAE know our stuff when it comes to taking care of your outdoor electrical needs. We have got you covered for everything from installing outdoor cables to setting up the whole outdoor electrical system. Contact Yakka Technical Services LLC today for a free consultation and peace of mind, knowing your outdoor electrical setup is in safe hands.