If you're in an older home, you may have heard the term BX cable. With its distinctive metal armor, this type of wiring was once a cutting-edge solution for electrical safety. But how does it hold up against today's standards?
This guide will walk you through what BX cable is, its biggest safety concern, and how it compares to the modern wiring you see today, like Romex and MC cable.
what is bx cable
What Is BX Cable? And Is It Safe?
BX cable is an old-style armored cable. It consists of two or three insulated electrical wires wrapped inside a flexible, spiraling steel sheath. It gained popularity in the 1920s as a major improvement over older wiring methods, providing physical protection for the wires.
The biggest safety issue with old BX cable, however, is that it typically lacks a dedicated ground wire. While the metal sheath was intended to act as a ground, this method is unreliable today. Over time, rust or poor connections can break the grounding path, leaving your electrical system and appliances without a safe way to discharge stray current.
Because of this, old BX wiring is not considered safe by modern electrical codes and should be inspected by a professional, especially during renovations.
BX vs. Romex vs. MC Cable: A Quick Comparison
The electrical world has evolved significantly since the days of BX wiring. Today, most installations use either non-metallic (NM) cable, commonly known as Romex, or a modern version of armored cable, known as MC cable.
Here's a simple breakdown of the differences:
Conclusion: Is It Time for an Upgrade?
While BX cable was an innovative product for its time, its lack of a reliable grounding path makes it a significant safety concern today.
If your home has old BX wiring, it's highly recommended that you have a licensed electrician inspect your system. They can help you determine whether it's safe to continue using or if it's time to upgrade to a modern, grounded wiring system like Romex or MC cable.
Choosing the right wiring is a critical step in ensuring the safety and reliability of your home's electrical system.
