Posted by: mateo
In wall installation - 02/05/02 04:45 PM
I just ran some pretty long speaker runs through my attic. I did not use in-wall rated speaker cables - I just used 16 guage. Is there some sort of danger involved with this type of istallation? Do I need to remove cables?
Posted by: charlie
Re: In wall installation - 02/05/02 08:02 PM
Well any electrician will tell you - in general it's a good idea to use wire that has been tested and approved by UL for the intended application.
You can get sheathed wire that is UL approved for less than $0.20 a foot.
Charlie
Posted by: Hullguy
Re: In wall installation - 02/05/02 08:17 PM
The insulation rated for use in the wall, (like a CL3 rating), is to protect you from the fumes that can be given off as the insulation smolders in a fire in your house.
Posted by: mateo
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 11:53 AM
I was thinking there was some sort of fire starting hazard involved by running non rated wire through the walls.
Posted by: charlie
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 02:20 PM
The uniform electrical code published by the NFPA doesn't really say WHY a specific wire should or shouldn't work, they avoid this by merely saying it shall be approved for the application.
So I don't really sweat it - I just use UL approved (for in wall use) wire and sleep well at night. The stuff I used was CL3 rated. In new construction or jobs that will be inspected the inspector can and should refuse to pass the job until it is done to code, and that includes the correct wire.
I spent part of my misspent youth as a licensed journeyman electrician.
Charlie
Posted by: mateo
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 02:30 PM
That puts my mind at ease Charlie - thanks for the info.
Posted by: charlie
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 05:52 PM
I'm glad your stress level is low, but I would NOT use wire that wasn't UL approved. If for no other than peace of mind.
Just my $0.02
Charlie
Posted by: snowman
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 07:18 PM
Is coax rated the same way? Planning to make a cable for in-wall soon and I want to get the right kind.
Posted by: Hullguy
Re: In wall installation - 02/06/02 07:47 PM
If the coax has CATV or CATVX printed on the outside it can be used in wall. There are 2 other markings CATVP for plenum or CATVR for risers. These can be used also but would cost more money for no benefit in this application. If you buy the cable off a spool, like at Home Depot and install your own ends, it should have the first 2 markings. If it is a pre-manufactured cable I would double check and see if it is approved. Good Luck