Many of us regularly carry out wet cleaning, wiping dust from shelves, window sills and TV screens, but we often overlook one important detail. Electrical cables and wires trailing behind furniture or lying on the floor accumulate dirt for years. This is not just a matter of aesthetics – a layer of dust and grease on the insulation can lead to unpleasant consequences for technology and home safety.
Impaired heat exchange and risk of overheating
The main problem with dirty wires is the physical properties of the dust. It works as a kind of “fur coat”, creating additional thermal insulation layer. Any cable warms up a little under load, and this is normal, but dirt prevents natural heat removal into the environment.
If the wire is constantly overheated due to a thick layer of dust, the insulation begins to lose its properties. Over time this can lead to shell melting or even a short circuit. This is especially true for powerful appliances such as heaters, irons or kitchen appliances, where the load on the network is especially high.
Destruction of insulating material
In addition to ordinary household dust, grease particles (especially in the kitchen) and chemicals from the air settle on the wires. This aggressive mixture reacts with the braid material. Modern cables are covered with plastic or rubber, which, when exposed to dirt, become hard and brittle.
When the insulation loses its elasticity, it develops microcracks. With any bending or movement of the wire, such a damaged sheath can burst, exposing the current-carrying conductors. Regular wiping removes chemically active plaque, maintaining the flexibility and integrity of the protective layer for many years.
Source of allergens and static electricity
The plastic sheath of cables has the property of accumulating static electricity. That is why the wires act like a powerful magnet, attracting the smallest particles from the air, pet hair and dust mites.
Tangles of wires behind a computer desk or TV turn into real ones dust collectorswhich the mop rarely reaches. For people suffering from allergies or asthma, such accumulations can become a source of constant discomfort. Clean wires significantly improve the overall microclimate in the room and reduce the amount of allergens in the air.
How to properly care for wires
The cleaning process does not require special tools, but it is important to follow safety precautions. Before cleaning it is necessary disconnect the device from the network. For wiping, it is best to use a slightly damp cloth made of microfiber or special wipes for office equipment.
Do not use aggressive solvents, alcohol or abrasive sponges, as they can damage the markings and the insulation structure itself. A mild soap solution is sufficient if the stains are severe. After wet processing, be sure to wipe the cable dry before plugging it back into the outlet.
Regular maintenance of communications makes the home safer and extends the life of household appliances.
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