Wiring under carpeting
Is there a safe way to run either an extension cord or permanent wire under carpeting that is on a slab? I know the danger of a raw extension cord under carpet. Can I put that in some protective sheath or conduit or is that still a fire hazard. Our furniture is set up such that nothing is against a wall (two couches form a sort of island with a lamp between them). There's no way to get the lamp plugged in without an extension cord - either above or below the carpet. Finally, what if I replace the extension cord with normal house wire - is that any safer under the carpet or does that also need to be in some protective casing? Thanks for any help or ideas. Bill Any wiring under carpeting is a bad idea , esp if its in or close to a traffic area . Either use an approved entension cord or have an addition outlet installed . My official recommendation is NO, I agree with Lear A more permanent solution would be install a new outlet/plug. the problem with extension cords under the carpet is 1st you can't see them and they will get walked on , furniture could be sat on them. I know some people do as you say as you are proposing to do, but we in a public forum gviving advise must look at safety issues and such things as code requirements. If this is an ongoing issue to have power on that other wall, consider running proper wiring thru the walls to a new location and install a peoper new outlet box and plug, in the long run it would be the better solution. If an extension cord is on top the carpet at least you can see it, but can still be an eye sore and what I think you were trying to do is hide it. Depending on where the plug is and where it has to go, perhaps it could be run close to the wall all the way (on top the carpet), it may however result in a longer run and depending on the house may result in crossing a doorway which could be another issue. It is always nice to have plugs on each wall anyway , so that this becomes a non issue as there would be a plug on that side of the wall. Unless you really dealing with a switched plug and you want to control a lamp from the switched plug on the other side of the room. There used to be what is called a flat track conduit. This flat conduit allowes for three conductors and creates a small hump about a 1/4 and is designed for this applications. I am not sure that this flat track conduit is still on the market but believe it is. Go to an electrical wholesale house and ask them to check their specialty wiring products. The conduit is about 4 wide and between 14 and a 1/2 high. Should make a small hump in the carpet you may be able to live with. Good luck Wg Many of the office supply stores sell a flexible rubber track that will lay on top of the carpet. The track peals open from the underside and allows 1-3 cords inside it. It is sometimes sold by the foot, but usually by the box (about 6 feet).
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