When it comes to electricity, it is important to ensure that all electrical cables are safe and protected. The surest way to achieve this is to use electrical tape. Although they are not well suited to large tasks, these types of tape are perfect for everyday tasks that require minor repairs. Electrical tape stretches when you wrap it around the wire and the elastic properties of the tape will provide a generally strong fit. They are also constructed to resist harsh temperatures and act as an insulator for the current passing through the wire. In our in-depth review, we will point out the best electrical tapes you can find. Scroll through the list to see which one is best for your needs. Get started!
Compare the best electrical tapes for 2022
1. Scotch Black Electrical Tape – Best Overall
Scotch black electrical tape is undoubtedly one of the most popular choices among most professional electricians. This electrical tape is suitable for a variety of applications, including insulation, protection and joining, thanks to its flexibility. With a width of 3/4 inch and a length of 66 feet, it’s sure to keep you stocked for weeks, even if you use it every day. In addition, this tape will adhere to rough and irregular surfaces and can effectively handle temperatures from 0 to 194° F.
This black rubber tape is completely resistant to UV rays, water, corrosion, wind, etc. The tape can withstand voltages of up to 1,150 V and can be stretched to twice its original length to provide a strong seal for electrical connections.
2. Wapoord electrical tape – runner-up
If you are looking for excellent stretchability and impressive adhesion, then Wapodeai electrical is the ideal choice for all your internal and external electrical tasks. Made from high quality PVC, this electrical tape is completely safe and free from any harmful chemicals. Looking ahead, it also offers excellent insulation and will provide reliable protection for all your circuits.
Upon ordering, you will receive 3 rolls of black tape, 49 feet long and 0.62 inches wide. Wapodeai is always concerned with maximizing customer satisfaction; therefore, if you are not satisfied with the delivery, you can call their customer service center for a free replacement.
3. Cambridge Vinyl Multi-Colour Electrical Tape Set – Honourable Mention
The Cambridge Vinyl Electrical Tape Set is available in 6 different colours including blue, black, red, yellow, green and white. Each piece of electrical tape is 66 feet long and 3/4 inch wide. They are made from high quality vinyl and will provide excellent insulation, flame retardancy and protection for all your projects. The electrical tape is wrapped separately to maintain freshness and adhesion. It stretches easily and can be attached to a variety of materials, including aluminum, plastic, copper and more. Electrical tape can also be used as the primary insulation for high voltage lines – up to 600V.
4. GGR supplies rainbow electrical tape – also consider
When you move to a new house, one of the most important things you should do is to mark all electrical wiring. If any unexpected electrical emergencies occur, you can easily find the wires you need and fix them. With the help of GGR Supplies Rainbow Electrical Tape, you can properly mark all the wires on your electrical panel and avoid any mistakes.
Each roll of electrical tape is 3/4″ wide and 66 feet long. In addition, the vinyl electrical tape is UL/CSA approved and is completely resistant to any UV, oil, acid, fire and abrasion damage.
5. Soundoriginal 6-Pack Electrical Tape
Whether you are a trained electrician or a hobbyist, Soundoriginal electrical tape is what you need. With it you can perform all tasks, including cable insulation, wire tying and more. Made from 7 mil thick premium vinyl, this electrical tape provides excellent adhesion while covering and shielding your work. soundoriginal electrical tape has a high voltage range of up to 600V and can withstand any temperature up to 176°F.
Best Electrical Tapes Buying Guide
Electrical tapes can come in a variety of colours and materials, so finding the best tape for you can be a huge challenge. But fear not, because we are here to help you. In this buying guide, we’ll discuss everything about electrical tape, including the most important things you should consider, the different types of tape available and the most frequently asked questions on the internet. Keep reading!
What should I consider when buying electrical tape?
Adhesive strength
Probably the first and most crucial part to consider when buying electrical tapes is their adhesive strength. Be sure to choose one that meets your requirements and your project. The best way to determine the bond strength of a product is to check the grade rating of the product, which is usually mentioned in the product description. For example, for most light insulation work you don’t need a tape with incredible bond strength; however, if you need to tape wires in a car, then you should buy a tape with a very strong bond.
Typically, most high-quality electrical tapes only require two rounds of wrapping to hold securely for at least five years. The main factors that can reduce the adhesive strength of electrical tape are physical stress, exposure to sunlight and temperature changes.
Tape stretching
When choosing electrical tape, you may also need to pay close attention to elasticity and the ability to hold it. For example, if the tape stretches quickly but does not return to its original shape; then you will be hard pressed to ensure a tight wrap. To properly insulate wires, the tape must be able to stretch as you use it, but once you loosen the tape – it should return to its original shape.
Thickness
The thickness of most electrical tapes available on the market can vary. Choosing the right one for you depends largely on the project you have at hand. Typically, most tapes are around 7 mils thick, but if you need a more robust approach, you should look for a thicker tape than this.
Colours
If you need to label wires at home, then you should look for different coloured tapes. Also, make sure you follow the appropriate colour code so your electrician is not confused and can easily detect the wires.
For example, black electrical tape is mainly used for insulation and low voltage, green is only used for earth wires and white is used to symbolise neutral or low voltage.
How much does electrical tape cost?
When it comes to electrical tape, it doesn’t always mean that the most expensive is the best. Typically, the best quality electrical tape costs from $4 to a maximum price of $49 from some of the most reputable manufacturers. The price range varies depending on many factors, including type, material, thickness, adhesive strength and the amount of electrical tape included.
How do we choose the best electrical tape?
We want to present the most honest and accurate information to our viewers. To find the best electrical tape, we focused on 3 key factors and researched hundreds of products online.
Reviews – Customer reviews help us to better understand their adhesive strength, thickness and flexibility.
Manufacturers – When looking at various electrical tapes, we also considered the manufacturers who make them. Some of the most popular brands always do their best to provide a quality product for their loyal buyers.
Price – We know that everyone has a different budget, which is why we try to select electrical tape for each user!
What types of electrical tape are available?
Getting the best type of electrical tape for a particular project can be very difficult. Here are the most basic types of electrical tape you will find on the market.
Rubber
Rubber electrical tape is usually not sticky, so to wrap something tightly, you need to physically stretch the tape. These types of tapes are usually used for splicing wires or flexible cords with a voltage rating of up to 69 kV.
Vinyl/PVC
This is undoubtedly the most popular type of electrical tape. With their abrasion-resistant PVC backing, they are flexible and durable, making them ideal for wire insulation, electrical connections and repairing small cuts in wires. They also offer excellent protection against moisture.
Frankincense
You will be able to find adhesive electrical tapes with vinyl, rubber or without backing. All specialists use these tapes primarily because they can be quickly adhered and easily installed in tight spaces or around irregularly shaped components. They can insulate any type of metal, rubber and synthetic cable, while providing a perfect moisture seal and UV resistance, making them ideal for external electrical connections and repairs.
Painted linen
These types of electrical tape are made from twisted cotton and covered with electrical insulating lacquer. They are suitable for covering bolts and any sharp edges that might cut through less durable electrical tapes. They are mainly used for domestic and vehicle applications where mechanical protection is required.
Conclusion
There are hundreds of electrical tapes to choose from, but with the help of our buying reviews you will be able to distinguish the good from the bad and choose the option that best suits your needs. Happy shopping!
Best electrical tapes FAQ
Q: How does electrical tape work?
A: Electrical tape is manufactured with an adhesive and a flexible backing that allows it to be wrapped securely around wires without being affected by electricity. Some other types of tape may have a fibre backing which can dry out quickly when exposed to electricity and cause a fire hazard.
Q: Can I put some electrical tape over bare wires?
A: Yes, you will be able to cover all exposed wires with the help of electrical tape. The most common electrical tapes can withstand voltages of up to 600 V, but if you need more, you can find tapes that can withstand voltages of up to 3 000 V. However, if the damage is severe, we strongly recommend that you repair the entire wiring or trim the unraveled wires.
Q: Should you use electrical tape for any non-electrical applications?
A: Although this tape is primarily used for electrical tasks, it can also be used for non-electrical purposes. It is often used for marking, as it is easy to write on and allows objects to be attached and detached quickly.
Q: Does electrical tape shrink in high temperatures?
A: No. Electrical tape is manufactured to handle high temperatures. Depending on the material and type, electrical tape can withstand temperatures of up to 200° F. However, you can also purchase heat shrink tapes which will shrink to a third of their size when near high temperatures.
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