Average Lifespan of a Cable

The lifespan of a cable is dependent on numerous factors. The flexibility of the cable and its ability to withstand common forms of damage can make a substantial difference in the number of years a cable can typically go before a replacement is needed. 

 

Average Lifespan of a Cable

With that said, cables are typically designed to last. As long as there are no mitigating circumstances, your average cable will generally last between 10 and 20 years. Of course that is assuming that the cable is in a relatively protected environment where it is less likely to sustain direct damage. 

Factors that Could Reduce the Lifespan of a Cable 

Your average cable is built to last but there are environmental factors that could wear the cable down faster than originally intended. These are the factors you should avoid if you want to keep your cables pristine for many years to come. 

Electricity Overload

Every cable is specifically designed to withstand a maximum voltage. If there is an electrical surge, then this could overwhelm and ultimately damage your cable. 

Extreme Heat

Your wire company can create a custom jacket for cables that will protect them against extreme heat and other kinds of wear. Your average cable does not have those benefits. 

If you have cable running near a heat source or through an area that is not temperature controlled in a hot climate, then there is a possibility that heat alone could damage your cable. 

UV Radiation

Sunlight has a way of wearing down fibers overtime, and your average cable is no different. If your cable is coated with a flexible plastic, then UV radiation has the ability to dry that plastic out.

Over time the jacket around your cable may crack, exposing your cable to further harm. Without a protective coating in place, your cable will be more vulnerable to pests, water, and other forms of environmental damage. 

Rain

Rain and electricity are a bad combination for human safety. As a result, it is important that your cables are sheltered from direct contact with water. Whenever possible, this should include suspending cables above the ground and shielding connections against environmental influences. 

Cables that are left on the ground where they may be exposed to rainwater or a potential plumbing leak aren’t just likely to fail. They’re highly dangerous and could result in a fire hazard. 

Pests

For whatever reason, there are a number of pests that pose a threat to your cables. Rats and other small rodents are the most common offenders. 

If a pest chooses to chew on your cables, there is a risk of electrocution to the pest and the possibility of a fire hazard. To reduce this risk, cables that are difficult to check for damage are frequently shielded with a hard, metal jacket that is difficult for pests to penetrate. 

Chemical Contaminants

Corrosive chemicals also pose a serious risk to the longevity of your cable. In normal household circumstances, chemical contaminants are unlikely to play a major role, but there are exceptions. 

With that said, cable used in an industrial or professional capacity could be exposed to a wide range of substances. Anything that is corrosive or creates a potential fire hazard should be kept far away from your cables. 

Mechanical Stress

Mechanical stress is most likely to occur when your cable is being installed or as a result of repeated re-use. There are several types of mechanical stress, including cutting, twisting, and crushing. 

Cutting is usually an accidental form of damage that occurs as a result of a problem during install. However, the other two forms of mechanical damage occur all the time, especially with multi-purpose cables. 

That is why it is often in your best interest to use ultra-flexible wire & cable for situations that are likely to cause mechanical stress to the cable over time.