Running cables can be a lot like fishing, in that you need to "catch" cables and pull them through areas that would normally be inaccessible. Fittingly, to accomplish this task, there are wire pull rods that are specifically designed to get at those hard to reach cables, and we've got plenty of options for you right here. Telescoping retriever poles, flexible snakes, magnetic retrievers... We've got what you need to get your cables pulled through walls, ceilings, raised floorings, crawl spaces, or whatever tough spots you're running them through.
Fish Stix, Rods & Poles
Common Problems You’ll Encounter While Running Cables and How to Fix Them
Running cables can be a challenge, even for the veteran electrician. Lucky for you, plenty of tools exist to combat common problems and make your job as easy as possible. Here are some of the most common issues you will encounter while you run cables, along with the solutions to pass right through them!
Navigate Through Inaccessible Areas
Working a wire through a tight spot or past a sharp turn can be nearly impossible without some help outside of your own two hands. This is why tools like telescoping poles, magnetic retrievers, flexible snakes, and conduit rodders exist. These tools are specifically designed to help you work right through walls, ceilings, floors, and crawl spaces to have access to wires without having to tear up your - or your clients - dry wall.
Don't Skip on Cable Management
Lots of us tend to underestimate the value of properly marking and labeling wires and cables. In truth, it will save you time, money, and energy in the long run. It's not expensive, and it is just a small additional step to all of the work you are already doing. Trust us, it is worth it! Also important is keeping your wires well managed and protected with cable ties. They come in a wide variety and help keep things together and organized instead of all over the place!
Make Sure to Follow the Laws and Codes
When it comes to electricity, things should be done right or not done at all. First of all, failure to follow your local codes can create serious safety hazards in the home. Electrical fires break out all the time due to incorrect wire use, and not to mention certain kinds of cabling can be toxic when it starts burning and can be harmful to residents and emergency personnel. Second, if you do things without following laws and codes, you risk wasting tons of time and energy in the event that you get caught. You may as well do your work correctly once, and avoid having to pay fines and re-do everything in the future.
Test All of Your Cables
Once you have all of your cables in place, it is an essential step to test each of them and make sure they are up to the standard for their intended use. Beyond making sure everything is working ok, you can also make sure they are up to code and there will be no issues with your work in the foreseeable future. Testing your cables gives you and/or your client the peace of mind of knowing your job was done professionally.
Cabling is tricky, there is no doubt about that. Minimize your mistakes and surpass your own and your client's expectations by using the right tools and the right process to do your job impeccably.