When we think about electricity, we usually focus on the obvious things—appliances, lights,
switches, or even the monthly bill. But behind the scenes, there’s something silently working to
keep all of this running: electric cables.
Cables are like the veins of modern life. They carry the current that powers our homes, keeps industries running, and even makes renewable energy possible. Yet, one thing many people overlook is just how much temperature affects these cables.
Whether it’s the scorching summer sun, freezing winters, or constant heat inside an industrial plant, temperature can either keep a cable working smoothly—or slowly destroy it.
Let’s take a closer look at why temperature matters so much for electric cables, and what it really means for safety, efficiency, and cost
Cables are like the veins of modern life. They carry the current that powers our homes, keeps industries running, and even makes renewable energy possible. Yet, one thing many people overlook is just how much temperature affects these cables.
Whether it’s the scorching summer sun, freezing winters, or constant heat inside an industrial plant, temperature can either keep a cable working smoothly—or slowly destroy it.
Let’s take a closer look at why temperature matters so much for electric cables, and what it really means for safety, efficiency, and cost
Why Temperature Matters More Than We Think
Every cable is made up of two main parts:
1. The conductor – usually copper or aluminum, which carries electricity.
2. The insulation – the protective layer (PVC, XLPE, or rubber) that keeps the current inside and prevents shocks or fires.
Now, here’s the catch: when electricity flows through the conductor, it naturally produces some heat. Add in high outside temperatures, and suddenly the cable is under stress. Think of it like running on a treadmill in an air-conditioned gym versus running outside on a 45°C summer day. Same exercise, but the conditions make all the difference.
Cables work the same way. The tougher the temperature, the harder they have to fight to perform safely.
1. The conductor – usually copper or aluminum, which carries electricity.
2. The insulation – the protective layer (PVC, XLPE, or rubber) that keeps the current inside and prevents shocks or fires.
Now, here’s the catch: when electricity flows through the conductor, it naturally produces some heat. Add in high outside temperatures, and suddenly the cable is under stress. Think of it like running on a treadmill in an air-conditioned gym versus running outside on a 45°C summer day. Same exercise, but the conditions make all the difference.
Cables work the same way. The tougher the temperature, the harder they have to fight to perform safely.
What Happens to Cables in High Temperatures?
Hot weather or overheated environments don’t just make us sweat—they stress out cables too.
Here’s how:
1. Insulation Breaks Down
When exposed to heat for too long, insulation starts losing its strength. It becomes brittle, develops cracks, and eventually exposes the conductor. That’s when short circuits and fire risks come into play.
2. Carrying Less Current
The hotter it gets, the less current a cable can safely carry. This is called derating. So, a cable that can handle 100 amps in normal weather may only carry 80–85 amps when the temperature rises.
3. More Energy Wasted
Heat increases the conductor’s resistance. That means more energy is lost as heat instead of being delivered to your appliances or machines. In industries, this directly affects efficiency and electricity costs.
4. Aging Faster
Just like how humans age faster under stress, cables lose their lifespan when constantly exposed to heat. A cable that should last 25 years may start failing in 10–12 years.
5. Fire Hazards
Overheated cables can ignite surrounding materials, making poor temperature management one of the top reasons behind electrical fires worldwide.
Here’s how:
1. Insulation Breaks Down
When exposed to heat for too long, insulation starts losing its strength. It becomes brittle, develops cracks, and eventually exposes the conductor. That’s when short circuits and fire risks come into play.
2. Carrying Less Current
The hotter it gets, the less current a cable can safely carry. This is called derating. So, a cable that can handle 100 amps in normal weather may only carry 80–85 amps when the temperature rises.
3. More Energy Wasted
Heat increases the conductor’s resistance. That means more energy is lost as heat instead of being delivered to your appliances or machines. In industries, this directly affects efficiency and electricity costs.
4. Aging Faster
Just like how humans age faster under stress, cables lose their lifespan when constantly exposed to heat. A cable that should last 25 years may start failing in 10–12 years.
5. Fire Hazards
Overheated cables can ignite surrounding materials, making poor temperature management one of the top reasons behind electrical fires worldwide.
FAQs – Temperature and Cable Performance
Q1: Why does heat reduce a cable’s lifespan?
Ans: Because both the conductor and insulation degrade faster when exposed to high temperatures.
Q2: How do I know which cable size I need?
Ans: It depends on your load and the environment. An electrician can calculate it based on derating factors.
Q3: Can extreme cold damage cables?
Ans: Yes, Insulation becomes stiff and may crack, especially during installation or handling.
Q4: Are solar cables different from normal electrical cables?
Ans: Yes, Solar cables are specially designed to resist UV rays, heat, and weather changes.
Q5: Why are CopperGAT cables reliable in extreme climates?
Ans: Because they combine high-quality copper with advanced insulation, designed and tested for real-world conditions.
Final Thoughts
Temperature is one of those things we don’t often think about when it comes to electricity—but
it makes all the difference. From your home to massive solar farms, cables are silently affected
by the heat, the cold, and everything in between.
The lesson is simple: don’t just think about cost or size when choosing a cable. Think about temperature, durability, and long-term safety. With the right choice, you’ll save money, energy, and most importantly—peace of mind.
When it comes to cables built to last in tough climates, CopperGAT is a name you can trust.
The lesson is simple: don’t just think about cost or size when choosing a cable. Think about temperature, durability, and long-term safety. With the right choice, you’ll save money, energy, and most importantly—peace of mind.
When it comes to cables built to last in tough climates, CopperGAT is a name you can trust.