Electricity cable splices: What they are and what types exist

It is one of the most common operations in electricity. We are talking about cable splicing. But what is it and what does it consist of? Are they safe? Did you know that there are a number of types? We will answer all these questions and a few more for your safety.

What is an electricity cable splice?

An electricity cable splice is when you join two or more cables in an electrical installation. It is one of repairing a cable that is in poor condition, making it longer or diverting cables. It may seem simple but it is very important to do it well so that it works perfectly and for safety reasons, both for you and for your installation.

What types of electricity cable splices are there?

We will briefly describe the most common types of electricity cable splicing, so you know what they are and what each one is for.

• Mouse tail splice or braiding: It is mostly used for leads and extensions in junction boxes or outputs.
• Western Union splice or extension: This is the simplest. It is applied to extend or repair cables. It is usually used on the surface. There is a "long tie" variation.
• For diversion: This is used to divert electricity to a number of outlets. The conductor holds the sides the cables and it can be single (T-shaped) or double.
• Knotted: This splice is safer because of the braiding technique.

What do you need to make an electricity cable splice?

• A screwdriver: If there is a terminal and you need to loosen the screws.
• Pliers: It needs to be a specific model that can be used for stripping and cutting cables.
• Guideline: This enables you to introduce and direct the cables through the channels.
• Connectors: These are connectors for electricity cables, as well as others solutions available for splicing. You should always remember that specific connectors are recommended depending on the purpose of the splice, where it is located and the type of cables you are going to connect.
• Cables: Not just the cables you have to splice, but extra cables in case you need to make an extension. It should be stressed that the cable should have the required characteristics for its function and location.
• Heat gun: This is used to heat the heat shrink tubes you will use to splice the cables.

You have probably seen cable splicing that is very precariously covered with insulating tape but to be safe it is best to protect the connection with a connector.

What should I take into account before making a cable splice?

The first and most important thing is to make sure that it is a simple operation, and check that you have all the necessary information. See whether you can do it yourself or if you will need the help of a professional. You should always bear in mind that it is a job that involves electrical risk if it is not done properly. So if you have any doubts, seek advice or help.

You should be aware of the type electricity cable splice you are going to make. And then make sure you have at your disposal the necessary tools to do it properly.

Make sure that you do the job while taking all the safety measures: If the cable splice is on an electrical appliance, handle it only when it has been unplugged from the grid. If you are going to make the splice in your electrical installation, always make sure the differential is switched off. Make sure you are wearing the right footwear and that nothing is wet (your clothes, your body and your environment should be dry).

If a cable is badly damaged, it is better to replace it rather than to splice it.

Luz 360 protection, peace of mind for electrical repairs

Always remember that Endesa offers you our Luz 360 Protection service, with which you can have an accredited professional come to your home to undertake electrical repairs such as cable splicing. The service includes travel and three hours of labour and it is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. And if it involves an urgent repair, you will have a technician in your home in less than 3 hours. If the breakdown is not urgent, the technician will be at your home within a maximum of 48 working hours and in accordance with your time requirements.

You should never try your hand at electrical repairs that in the long run could pose an electrical risk, leave it to an expert and this will make your life so much easier.