In the UK our Winters tend to be very cold and very wet. We can get hit by a storm or two and if we’re lucky, we might even see a few flakes of snow. Winter weather can play havoc with our outdoor electrics - especially so if they’re been installed incorrectly.
Outdoor Electrics in the Winter
At A Bathe Electrics we install all types of outdoor electrics to the highest possible standard. This means they’ll be well protected from the blistering cold UK Winter weather. Our team is based in Birmingham and we proudly serve the Kings Heath area. So, whether your outdoor socket needs replacing or your porch lights stopped working - we can help you!
Cold Weather & Outdoor Electrics
Cold weather can cause harm to your outdoor electrics in many different ways. Cold weather can cause standard wires to become brittle, often causing cracks. This is extremely dangerous as when cables crack, live wire can become exposed. Live wires can expose us to electric shocks - something none of us want to ever experience! Thankfully, there’s a simple solution - to always use outdoor rated wires and equipment. Outdoor rated electrical equipment is specifically designed to withstand all types of environmental elements. This includes everything we see during the Winter, from rain to snow. Outdoor rated electrical equipment is very different to standard indoor equipment. They use specialised materials, are robustly sealed and require mandatory safety features such as RCD's - this prevents electric shocks caused by increased moisture levels. Outdoor wires will have thicker outer insulation protecting them against harsh weather conditions and other things like rodent damage.
IP (Ingress Protection) Explained
Any electrical equipment fit for outdoor use will have an IP rating of at least IP44. Better protected equipment will be labelled as IP65 or 66. This is what we tend to use as it’s fully water and dust tight.
The first digit after IP relates to the level of protection against solids. From zero being none to 6 being fully dust tight. The second digit relates to liquid protection. Zero being none, nine being water tight. Not using high IP rated equipment outdoors can lead to quicker deterioration, potential of electric shocks, and even electrical fires.
Outdoor Socket Installers Kings Heath
Adding an outdoor socket is one of our most common client requests and for good reason. It’s extremely useful to have all year round - from garden maintenance in the Summer to plugging in Christmas lights when Winter arrives. When we install an outdoor socket, we ensure:
- It has an IP rating of 66.
- The circuit has RCD protection.
- It has a weatherproof cover as an extra layer of protection.
- It’s installed at least 30cm above the ground to limit moisture exposure.
- It’s properly sealed so no insects are sneaking in.
Doing these things will ensure the installation complies with BS 7671.
Outdoor Lighting Installers Kings Heath
Fed up of your dark driveway? Looking at ways to enhance security at your Kings Heath home? Adding a few outdoor lights can make the world of difference visually and a home that’s well lit, is much less likely to be targeted for theft. We can also replace poorly fitted or faulty outdoor lights.
Kings Heath Electrician
When it comes to installing electrics outside, you want someone experienced, skilled and that you can trust. With A Bathe Electrics, your local Kings Heath electrician we will always:
- Install to the highest possible standard.
- Listen to your requirements.
- Fully test and certify the installation.
- Notify local building authorities if required. For example, if we need to add a new circuit.
- Leave your home as we found it.
So, whether your porch light needs replacing, or you’re finally investing in that outdoor socket - there’s only one team for the job in Kings Heath - A Bathe Electrics.
