When it comes to protecting an electric cable from moisture, impact, chemicals, and other environmental factors, a PVC conduit is an excellent choice. However, even experienced contractors and electricians will run into trouble if installation isn’t given the proper attention it deserves. What may seem like small oversights will lead to failed inspections, damaged cables, wasted materials, and expensive rework later down the road. In this guide, let’s go through some of the most common PVC conduit installation mistakes and how they can be prevented.
Why Correct PVC Conduit Installation Matters
There are many reasons why correct PVC conduit installation matters. The most prominent reasons include:
- Preventing damage to electrical cables
- Preventing the electrical system from overheating
- Stopping dirt and moisture from seeping into the system
- Protecting the cables from UV exposure
- Ensuring long-term support for the electrical system
Common PVC Conduit Installation Mistakes
Here are some of the most common PVC conduit installation mistakes even the most experienced electricians and contractors can make from time to time.
Mistake 1 – Choosing the Wrong Conduit Size
When too many electrical cables are crammed through an undersized conduit, it makes the installation difficult, as well as future maintenance and system upgrades. Plus, when too many wires are crammed into a small place, there is little room for the wires to expand and contract, resulting in overheating.
Conduit diameter should be based on the number, size, and types of cables that it will carry. And it must also have room to spare for future upgrades and maintenance.
Mistake 2 – Using Incorrect or Excessive Bends
Unnecessary or poorly planned bends will make cable pulling harder and place a lot of unwanted stress on the cables. Forcing rigid conduits into position instead of using purpose-designed conduit bends is a common shortcut. However, this shortcut will cause problems down the road.
Choosing the right conduit bends helps you avoid the kinks and stress points that come with improvised bending, allowing for a smoother, cable-friendly system.
Mistake 3 – Incorrect Support and Fixing
When the electric pipes aren’t properly supported with the right fixtures, it can lead to the sagging, shifting, and damage of the system over time. The support spacing should follow the necessary installation requirements, with extra care given when installing support for outdoor, exposed, or high-traffic areas.
Mistake 4 – Poor Jointing and Connections
Loose and poor joints leave gaps that allow moisture and contaminants to seep into the system, undermining the protection that the PVC conduits are intended to provide. By using compatible fittings and appropriate joining methods, you will be able to create a conduit that is essentially watertight and durable.
Mistake 5 – Ignoring Environmental Conditions
The location you choose to install your electrical system will have an impact on the overall health of your system. Factors like UV exposure, moisture, chemical exposure, physical impact, and underground conditions all need to be considered. The factors can help determine the exact conduits and fittings needed for the job.
Mistake 6 – Failing to Plan the Conduit Route
Route rushing can lead to unnecessary bends and awkward cable runs, which in turn causes significant strain on the electrical cables. Plan ahead and find the best route for your cables by taking into account suitable access for future inspections, maintenance, or cable replacements.
How These Mistakes Lead to Costly Rework
Choosing the wrong PVC conduit, fitting, or support is only the start of the snowball effect. When the system is not up to standard, issues prop up sooner rather than later. Fixing these issues often requires removing and reinstalling cables and conduits. Failed electrical inspections can halt the project altogether. All of this will only add time and expenses to the project. So, it’s far more efficient and cost-effective to get things right at the beginning instead of correcting them when problems appear.
How to Avoid PVC Conduit Installation Problems
A handful of practices can go a long way to avoid PVC conduit installation problems. They include:
- Plan the route before installation – Plan the route in a way that minimises unnecessary bends and complicated routes.
- Select the correct conduit size – The conduit should have enough space for the cables and future requirements.
- Use compatible fittings and bends – Use purpose-built fittings instead of retrofitting parts. Purpose-built components also make the routeing easier and give the system a professional finish.
- Follow appropriate support requirements – Make sure that the conduits are secure against sagging and unnecessary movements.
- Protect the cables from environmental exposure – The right PVC conduit can protect the cables from UV, dirt, moisture, and chemical exposure.
- Use qualified electrical professionals – Check that the electricians have the right Australian qualifications.
Conclusion
From incorrect sizing and poor bends to inadequate support and weak connections and more, these seemingly minor oversights can have serious consequences for the safety and performance of your electrical system. However, all these mistakes can be avoided by careful planning and the right components.
If you’re looking for a reliable supplier of construction material for your next project, then Convic is the place for you. Since 2001, we’ve been supplying the materials for the projects that build Australia. Big or small, you can find what you need for your project with us.
