Keeping Electrical Connections Dry in Wet and Damp Locations
Chuck Ross
Water and electricity don’t mix – that’s something we all learn at a pretty early age. But still, there are times when even the wettest locations require power. In applications from pool lighting to irrigation systems and outdoor outlets, contractors are often called on to make electrical connections that can remain watertight over years of use. Fortunately, manufacturers have stepped up with connectors that keep conductors protected, often through the use of silicone products that help keep moisture at bay.
Water, itself, isn’t the problem when it comes to electricity – in fact, “pure” water is actually an insulator. However, pure water also doesn’t exist in nature. Instead, whether it’s from the tap, rainfall, a pool or the ocean, the water we’re familiar with in everyday life all has dissolved minerals, chemicals and other substances that are electrical conductors. If a human body is in that water, it’s likely to become an electrical current’s easiest path to ground.
This hazard is why the National Electrical Code focuses much of its attention to outlining requirements for safe installations in damp and wet locations. To support electrical pros working in these settings, connector manufacturers have developed a range of connector types that incorporate dielectric (another way of saying “nonconductive”) silicone sealants.
Silicone products are often used as lubricants, especially around materials that break apart prolonged exposure to petroleum jelly or other petroleum-based offerings. The silicone coats electrical terminals and fills the tiny gaps that might occur within their connections. This provides sealant protection from moisture, as well as from any dirt, dust or other contaminants that might otherwise create a hazard. To make installation easier, a number of manufacturers have developed twist-on connectors prefilled with dielectric silicone sealant. Styles are available for a range of applications, from low-voltage irrigation systems to outdoor outlets and pool pumps.
Water, itself, isn’t the problem when it comes to electricity – in fact, “pure” water is actually an insulator. However, pure water also doesn’t exist in nature. Instead, whether it’s from the tap, rainfall, a pool or the ocean, the water we’re familiar with in everyday life all has dissolved minerals, chemicals and other substances that are electrical conductors. If a human body is in that water, it’s likely to become an electrical current’s easiest path to ground.
This hazard is why the National Electrical Code focuses much of its attention to outlining requirements for safe installations in damp and wet locations. To support electrical pros working in these settings, connector manufacturers have developed a range of connector types that incorporate dielectric (another way of saying “nonconductive”) silicone sealants.
Silicone products are often used as lubricants, especially around materials that break apart prolonged exposure to petroleum jelly or other petroleum-based offerings. The silicone coats electrical terminals and fills the tiny gaps that might occur within their connections. This provides sealant protection from moisture, as well as from any dirt, dust or other contaminants that might otherwise create a hazard. To make installation easier, a number of manufacturers have developed twist-on connectors prefilled with dielectric silicone sealant. Styles are available for a range of applications, from low-voltage irrigation systems to outdoor outlets and pool pumps.
Photo courtesy of King Innovation
