Can i use a bigger size cable for my electric shower?
Question:My showers instructions say use a 6mm cable, which i have installed, and been using. But i have had frequent problems with the switch (pull cord) breaking (ive replaced it three times) and the wires over heating and creating a really bad odour. The ends of the wires insulation has melted etc, and i've reterminated them and it has happened again. Can i / should i use a slightly bigger cable? The run is only about 10 metres, free standing (not in conduit) in a loft cavity. and the shower has its own dedicated consumer unit
Answers:
6²mm cable should be ok for the circuit that you describe. If the cable is only overheating at the ends, where it's connected at the switch, then either---
1) the terminals are not tight enough.
2) the switch is poor quality.
3) The switch is only rated at 30 amp, Fit a 45 amp type.
Don't fit the replacement switch onto the damaged cable ends, only onto clean, newly bared strands. Make sure that you don't nick the strands when baring the conductors, use a 'BLUNT' knife.
Any combination of the above will cause your problem.
What is the showers loading??
Pretty sure it should be in 10mm cable but am definitely sure if it's overheating you shouldn't use it. Call an electrician.
Not sure what you mean by "it's own dedicated consumer unit"
Clearly the overheating is going to cause a fire. Also, clearly, you don't know what you are doing. Get a qualified electrician to advise you
6mm square should be plenty big enough. it sounds like there is another problem.
I'm not familiar with Pull cord switches in showers?
Did you install it yourself?
Are you sure the switch is rated to carry 30 amps?
Insulation melts of course because the wire is heating up, BUT that heat could be coming off the terminal.
Check that every part of the installation is rated for at least 30 amps.
I am not a household electrician but a 30amp pull switch for a shower sounds unusual to me.
Check here first.
It goes without saying that you are in danger of death if you make a mistake wiring near water.
Perhaps you should get a qualified electrician to look at it.
yes you can use a larger wire but it would be a good idea to have it hooked up to a circuit breaker in case it overheats
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