Do you have a couple of rolls of electrical tape lying around, but you don't know what to do with them?
I was in your shoes just a few weeks ago. At our house, we go through an annual declutter, in which we sell, donate or throw out things we don't need anymore. My neighbor Laura graciously agreed to help me out for this season's tidying session.
As we were going through the household toolkit and woodworking things, I came across two unused rolls of electrical tape. Just when I was about to shift it to the "Throw" box, Laura stopped me saying, "Stacy, it'll find plenty of uses around the house. Don't throw it out just yet."
That's when we had a mini discussion about tapes in which Laura shared ideas about using electrical tape, many of which I'd never heard before! Since I always jot down new information that I can later share with my readers, I did just that.
Hi! I'm Stacy Smith, and today I've created a list of numerous ways in which you can use electrical tape. Without further ado, let's find out what are the different uses for electrical tape.
The Original Purpose Of Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is a thin, narrow, black tape that has a smooth back finishing. Although it is sometimes available in different colors, it is most easily identified as "black tape." Electricians use this all-purpose insulating tape for connecting wires by twisting them.
To cover up the twisted portion, strips of electrical tape are used, which help the connection stay stable. It is also traditionally used to separate the cold wires from the hot ones to prevent short circuits. Now, let us see some other uses for the humble electric tape.
The Different Uses Of Electrical Tape
1. Indoor Decorations
One of the first non-electrical purposes I used this tape for was for home decoration. I saw a few patterns online for wall decorations and decided to try it out on one basement wall. The wallpaper was peeling out slightly anyway, so I marked a few spaces with a carpenter's ruler.
After this, I applied the tape in straight lines, strategically covering the peeled-off parts. I think it would look more interesting if the tape were patterned, but the black one gave a different look and feel to the wall.
2. Creating Labels
The back portion of the tape is suitable for writing things so that you can make labels for various purposes. Electricians use this method to label the name of different wires in the fuse box. You can label anything under the sun; it doesn't have to be limited to electric uses.
Also, since they are glossy on the outside, writing and sticking them on jars or drawers will work pretty well. Be sure you use a bright color like red on the black tapes or else they won't be visible. Apart from jars, you can also label cabinets, envelopes, switches, and other kitchen appliances. This tape can also be used to color code in your notebooks and journals.
3. Quick-Fix Repairs
What do you do when you find a stray wire coming out from the cable management system? Some of you would probably want to replace the wires to solve the problem. But, what if you could simply fix it with electrical tape? Well, you can!
It could be the computer cables entangled with each other, or unruly cables hanging around the kitchen. These issues can be easily fixed by wrapping a small piece of tape around to keep the wires together. Alternatively, you can also tape the cable to the wall, hiding it from view.
4. Insulation
This tape can act as an excellent insulator without burning or getting damaged. Since it is heat resistant and fireproof, you can use it around hot areas in the kitchen like the oven or stove. Usually, a tape made of high-quality vinyl has better insulation properties.
5. Sports
Another use for electrical tapes is for protecting sports equipment. You can wrap up hockey sticks with this tape to prevent the wood from spoiling from atmospheric moisture. If you play football, keep the shin guards in place by taping them to your legs.
6. Car Repair
When you bust a taillight or a side-view mirror, probably your first thought might not be to use electrical tape. Yet, this sticky tape can hold up the minor damages for some time. Even though it is a temporary solution, it's better than none.
Take a few strips of this tape to bind together with the broken mirror or tail light glass. I think this fix should last at least a couple of days, after which you can get it replaced by a professional.
7. Health
I was pretty surprised to find out that electrical tapes can be added to the first aid kit! If you want to remove warts from any part of your body, the tape helps to fasten the process. Also, you can use this tape as a temporary method to stick the gauze in case you run out of medical tape.
- PRIMARY ELECTRICAL INSULATION for all wire and cable splices rated up to 600 volts
- PROTECTIVE JACKETING for high-voltage cable splices and repairs
- BUNDLE & REPAIR; harness wires and cables
- Versatile Usage: Pack of 6 Rolls 3/4 inch width x 60 foot black vinyl electric tape, Flexible, stretchable construction ideal for electronic repairs including cable insulation, spliced wires, cable bundling
- Strong Adhesive: Crafted from super rubber adhesive, the electrical tape provides steadfast adherence, free from the risk of unexpected detachment over time for electrical safety.
- Easy to use: It is easy to tear and convenient to use, it can be torn by bare hand after taping cables
Final Words
So, here is my list of multiple uses for electrical tape. Now, you too do not need to throw out your tapes afterall. And, I was thankful I learned that this small electrical device could come in handy for so many purposes around the house.
Over the past few weeks, after Laura gave me these suggestions, I moved the tape in my kitchen drawer so I could locate them conveniently. I was pretty glad that I was able to use the tape for more uses around the house.Â
On that note, I’ll take your leave. Let me know in the comments what different purposes you find for your electrical tape.
See you later, bye!