From pinching casings under chair legs to yanking cords from the walls, there are several ways cables and chargers can wear and tear. According to the electricians at AA Electric in Honolulu, HI, continuing to use damaged equipment could ruin your devices and cause safety concerns. Here, they share an overview of why broken cables and chargers should be replaced.

Problems Caused by Damaged Chargers & Cables

Wire coppers in charging cables are protected by a colored insulation layer, which is then encased in flexible rubber or plastic tubing. If the outer material is pinched or bent, it could tear open and expose the insulation, in which case you should stop using the cable immediately. Otherwise, the insulation layer could wear away and expose the energized wire. Because the wire carries an electrical charge, you could get shocked when connecting the cable to a plugged-in charger or electronic device. Depending on the voltage of the wire and charger, interruptions in electrical flow could also short-circuit the device and anything else connected to the same circuit.

How to Handle Damaged Equipment

If you notice stress points in charging cables, applying electrical tape to those areas could temporarily reinforce the integrity of the cable. However, replacing the broken equipment is often the best solution to the problem. Because broken chargers and cables are common problems, you can find new equipment at competitive prices. The cost might even be covered under the manufacturer warranty. If replacement materials are expensive, an electrician might be able to install sheathing to protect the exposed metal elements.

How to Prevent Future Concerns

Being more mindful of how you treat cables and chargers will help reduce the likelihood of premature wear and eventual equipment failure. Don’t forcefully remove chargers from wall sockets since doing so burdens the cable jacket. Wrapping phone and laptop cables tightly for storage similarly creates stress points that could eventually tear the outer casing. When charging electronics, let cords dangle loosely and keep them away from other cables to avoid tangling.

Whether you need repairs for faulty cables and chargers, wiring installation, or additional help, leave it to the trained electricians at AA Electric. A part of the Honolulu community since 1947, their team provides commercial home electrical service and repairs to improve efficiency and safety. They’ll also share tips to reduce energy consumption and costs. Call (808) 841-4131 to request a quote, and visit the electricians online for more information on their services.