Can I use HO5VV-F cable outside?

HappyHippyDad · May 10, 2012

Hello,

I am about to wire in a 500w IP54 rated halogen lamp to the outside of my mothers shed. The shed has its own 2 way consumer unit with a seperate circuit running back to the main CU in the house.

My uncle has kindly supplied the cable but I am weary a nd would have prefered to have used the cable suggested in the instruction booklet that came with the light (i.e HO5RN-F 1mm2).

The cable given to me is HO5VV-F 0.75mm2.

I have 2 questions:

1. Is this cable usable outdoors? I kind of expect its not, but it would be interesting to know why not. Not just because the regs say 'No' but the physical reason why?

2. The cable is apparently rated at 5amps which is more than enough, however it dosen't feel quite right using cable less than 1mm2!! Again, would this size be acceptable and if not why not seeing as though it will only be taking 2.17amps (500/230)?

I fully expect to be heading off to screwfix after your replies but i'd be interested to hear the answers.

Thanks..

johnboy6083 · May 10, 2012

I dont see why HO% shouldnt be used outside. Ive used itr to wire lights in fountains before and it suffered no ill effects, even in heavily chlorinated water. they do deteriorate slightly in chlorine, but only after 5years +

HappyHippyDad · May 10, 2012

Thanks Johnboy,

But its the next 2 letters that I think may determine whether it can be used outside 'VV', in other words its PVC around the conductor and the sheath is PVC. The RN in H05RN signifies rubber around the conductor and polychloprene rubber as the sheath (whatever this is) which is definitely OK for outside. Just not sure if the 'VV' can be used outdoors?

paul_griff · May 10, 2012

1. I don't think there is anything in the regs that specifically says you can't use it outdoors, just that it should be fit for the purpose it is being used for.

2. The current carrying capacity is fine, just ensure it is fused correctly. Copper costs a lot nowadays so smaller cables are being used more and more.

Guitarist · May 10, 2012

As long as it is fused to 3A I wouldn't worry. It's no different to the millions of outside lights connected in T&E around the Nation.

HappyHippyDad · May 11, 2012

Great, thanks all, thats put my mind at rest. This forum really is very useful. When I eventually pass all my exams and get some experience I look forward to giving some advice rather than just receiving it.

Bright Sparks · May 11, 2012

HO5RN-F is a 60 Deg C Neoprene jacked flex. these are generally used outside for outdoor applications, PVC doesn't like UV light that much, however has been used and remains in use all over the place.

HO5VV-F is a PVC coated cable.

Remember as the installer you are responsible for the selection and erection of the installation.