G'day! When you flip a light switch or plug in the kettle, you rarely think about what is happening behind the walls. However, the hidden network of copper that powers our lives is one of the most critical components of any building. Choosing the right electrical cable is not just about getting the lights on; it is about ensuring your home is safe, compliant, and capable of handling the power demands of modern Aussie life.

From the standard white cables in your bedroom walls to the heavy-duty orange cables running underground to the shed, understanding the difference between cable types is essential knowledge for anyone planning a renovation or build.

The Standard: Flat TPS Cable

If you look inside the roof cavity or wall of almost any Australian home, you will see kilometres of white, flat plastic cabling. This is known as Twin and Earth, or Flat TPS (Thermoplastic Sheathed) cable. It is the bread and butter of the industry.

TPS electrical cable consists of an outer sheath protecting individually insulated Active, Neutral, and Earth wires. It is easy to strip and flexible enough to be pulled through timber frames during the rough-in stage of a build. While it is durable, it is designed strictly for indoor use or enclosed spaces like conduits, as the white plastic can break down under UV light over time.

Heavy Duty: Orange Circular Cable

When the job gets tough, tradespeople switch to Orange Circular cable. You will often see this on construction sites, in industrial settings, or running power to outdoor equipment like pool pumps and air conditioning units.

This cable gets its name from the distinctive orange outer sheath, which is round rather than flat. It is built to withstand harder knocks and provides better mechanical protection than standard TPS. Crucially, high-quality orange circular cable found at a reputable electrical wholesaler is usually UV stabilised, meaning it can be run on external walls without degrading in the harsh Australian sun.

Size Matters: Matching Cable to Load

Not all wires are created equal. The thickness (cross-sectional area) of the copper inside the cable dictates how much current it can safely carry. Using a cable that is too thin for the appliance it powers is a massive fire risk, as the wire will heat up and melt the insulation.

• 1.0mm to 1.5mm: Typically used for lighting circuits.
• 2.5mm: The standard for General Purpose Outlets (power points).
• 4.0mm and 6.0mm: Used for high-draw appliances like electric ovens, large air conditioners, and mains power feeds.

The Golden Rule: No DIY Wiring

This is the most important thing to remember. In Australia, working with fixed electrical cable is strictly regulated. It is illegal for a homeowner to install, modify, or repair fixed wiring.

You must engage a licensed electrician for any cabling work. A professional ensures that the cable is routed correctly, protected from damage, and connected safely to the switchboard. They also perform the necessary resistance and insulation tests to ensure the installation meets AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules. If you attempt to run your own cables, you risk electrocution, fire, and voiding your home insurance policy.

Reliable Supplies from Schnap Electric

While you cannot install it yourself, ensuring your tradesperson is using high-quality materials is vital for the longevity of your electrical system. Cheap cables can have poor insulation or impure copper, leading to voltage drop and potential faults.

Schnap Electric Products is a premier supplier for the trade industry in Australia. They stock a massive range of cabling solutions, from standard rolls of 2.5mm Twin and Earth to heavy-duty Orange Circular and industrial cables. By providing the same professional-grade equipment you would expect to find at a major electrical wholesaler, Schnap Electric ensures your home is wired with components that are safe, compliant, and built to last. For the best connection, trust the cable range from Schnap Electric.