In today’s construction landscape, ensuring electrical safety is paramount, particularly in a place like Bali, where building standards must meet both local and international criteria. At Bali BestBuild, we emphasize the importance of rigorous electrical checks to safeguard your property and the well-being of its occupants. This guide outlines essential practices for electrical installations, focusing on cable quality and proper installation methods.
The Crucial Role of High-Quality Electrical Cables
The foundation of any safe electrical system lies in the quality of the cables used. In Bali, the standard cables for house wiring are NYY and NYM. NYM cable is best suited for internal use, while the more robust NYY cable can withstand outdoor conditions, embedding in concrete, or burial in the earth. It’s essential to remember that neither should be used where they can be mechanically damaged. To provide an extra layer of safety, all cables should be installed in rigid plastic pipes known as conduit.
Both types of cables are available in two and three core versions, with copper wires sheathed in coloured PVC insulation and enclosed in an outer layer. Two-core cables (NYY-O and NYM-O) are typically used for lighting circuits, while three-core cables (NYY-J and NYM-J) are necessary for plug sockets and any circuit requiring earthing.
The quality of these cables varies significantly, with brands like “Supreme” and “Focus” recognized for superior quality, as they have their names printed on them. Lower quality brands may not be as durable. It is important to note that the price of the cable generally reflects its quality.
The Importance of Correct Installation
Proper design and installation of electrical circuits are vital for preventing fires and electrocution. It is most important to ensure that the wiring is properly designed and correctly installed. Power circuits should always use three-core cable.
When connecting cables, it is vital that the connections are done properly. A practice often seen, but not good enough, is simply twisting the exposed copper wires together and wrapping them with tape. A more secure and safer method involves using small plastic caps that screw down onto the two copper ends. These caps ensure that the wires are held tightly together and that the joint is insulated. Furthermore, all joints should be contained within a junction box.
Continuity Testing: A Must for Safety
After installation, a continuity test is crucial to verify the safety of the wiring. This test uses a meter that sends a pulse of high voltage into the cable to measure any leakage. The resistance between the different cores in the cable is measured to check for short circuits and ensure that the insulation is working correctly.
A properly functioning circuit should have a high electrical resistance, up to 2,000 megohms. Any failure in the continuity test may indicate problems like a break in insulation, a nail through the cable, or a faulty connection.
- Key Reasons for Test Failure:
- Poor quality cable: Low-quality cables are prone to leaking electricity.
- Substandard installation: Specifically wiring connections made improperly.
Conclusion
By focusing on high-quality materials, correct installation techniques, and thorough testing, you can ensure a safe electrical system in your Bali property. These practices are not just about adhering to regulations; they are about protecting your investment and ensuring the safety of everyone who uses the building.
