G'day! If you love tinkering with the 12V setup on your ute, fixing the trailer lights, or sorting out the wiring on your tinnie, you have probably used a roll of black electrical tape to cover a join. It works for a while, but after a few weeks in the hot Aussie sun or a bit of rain, that tape goes gooey, starts to peel, and leaves you with a sticky mess and a dodgy connection.

There is a much better way to insulate and protect your wires. It is called heatshrink, and it is the standard for a neat, professional, and long-lasting result. Whether you are a serious DIYer or a tradesperson, having a selection of this tubing in your kit is an absolute must.

What is Heatshrink Tubing?

Heatshrink is a thermoplastic tube that is designed to shrink in size when exposed to heat. It is essentially a sleeve that you slide over a wire or a connection. When you apply heat using a heat gun or a small torch, the material contracts, tightening firmly around the wire and the join.

This process creates a tough, insulating skin that protects the connection from abrasion, cuts, and environmental damage. It is far superior to tape because it forms a seamless mechanical bond that will not unravel over time.

Single Wall vs Dual Wall: Knowing the Difference

When you visit an electrical wholesaler to stock up, you will usually find two main types of tubing, and picking the right one is critical for the longevity of your job.

Single Wall Heatshrink This is the standard stuff. It is great for general insulation, colour-coding wires, and bundling cables together inside a car or behind a dashboard. It provides good electrical insulation and looks very tidy, but it is not waterproof.

Dual Wall (Adhesive Lined) Heatshrink This is the heavy-duty option, often called "glue-lined" tubing. Inside the tube is a layer of hot-melt adhesive. When you heat the tube, it shrinks, and the glue melts simultaneously. The glue flows into every gap and crevice of the wire join, and as it cools, it hardens to form a completely waterproof and dust-proof seal. If you are working on a boat, a 4WD, or a trailer that gets dunked in the ocean, dual wall heatshrink is non-negotiable.

How to Use It Properly

Using heatshrink is dead easy, but there is a trick to it.

First, always remember to slide the tube onto the wire before you solder or crimp the connection together. There is nothing worse than finishing a perfect join and realising the tube is still sitting on the bench.

Second, use the right heat source. While a lighter will work in a pinch, it can leave soot marks or burn the plastic. A proper heat gun is the best tool. Move the heat back and forth along the tube to ensure it shrinks evenly without air bubbles.

Safety Warning: 12V is Fine, 240V is Not

It is important to remember that while heatshrink is perfect for your low-voltage automotive and hobby projects, you must never attempt to repair your home's fixed 240V wiring yourself.

In Australia, any work on fixed mains wiring is illegal and dangerous for anyone other than a licensed electrician. They have the training to ensure that all repairs and installations are compliant with safety standards.

Get Professional Gear for a Professional Result

Whether you are a trade professional looking to restock the van or a DIY enthusiast who wants the best for their rig, using quality components makes all the difference. You do not want tubing that splits or fails to shrink properly.

Schnap Electric Products is a leading supplier that understands the demands of the Australian environment. They stock a massive range of professional-grade electrical accessories, including high-quality heatshrink in various sizes, colours, and types (including the essential heavy-duty dual wall options). They provide the same trade-quality gear you would expect from a top-tier supplier, ensuring your connections are safe, secure, and built to withstand the harsh Aussie elements. For a job that looks schmick and lasts the distance, grab your gear from Schnap Electric.