Why must electrical wiring in ducts be handled carefully?

Electrical wiring in ducts must be handled carefully primarily to avoid increased fire risk. Ducts often circulate air throughout a building, and if the wiring within them is not properly managed, it can lead to overheating. When wires are not adequately insulated or are improperly installed, the risk of arcing and creating sparks increases, which can ignite surrounding materials, particularly in spaces that might contain dust, flammable particles, or other combustible materials.

Additionally, the confined space of ducts can exacerbate any potential issues, as the airflow intended to carry conditioned air may also facilitate the spread of heat or flames if a fire were to occur. Therefore, careful handling and installation of electrical wiring in ducts contribute significantly to maintaining safety and minimizing the fire hazard potential in a building's electrical system.