Homes and commercial buildings need an overhead power line or an underground cable to power the whole building. These pieces of equipment, while differently located, all provide a single purpose - to connect the building’s electrical wiring system to the main electrical network. Only Sydney Level 2 Electricians are able to handle any repairs or installations regarding overhead and underground power lines in NSW, Australia. But are there any benefits or limitations to using either overhead power lines or underground cables?

Advantages and Disadvantages of Overhead Power Lines

Overhead cables are those lines seen in homes or commercial buildings coming straight from the street pole going to the house or shop. These lines can also come from the private power pole to the building’s point of attachment. 

Easy to Install and Repair

The installation and repair of overhead power lines do not require more time to complete. Given the location of an overhead cable, a professional ASP Level 2 electrician can easily check the issue and provide the best solution.

More Affordable

Price is another reason overhead power cables are popular among Sydney locals. Installation, maintenance and repair of this equipment require fewer tools and other resources. The fewer requirements for its upkeep and installation affords homeowners and businesses to save when they opt for an overhead line.

Prone to Environmental Hazards

Its location is also a disadvantage for an overhead power cable. Vegetation, wildlife and human-caused accidents can easily lead to a low-hanging cable. When this happens, it could cause electrocution and electric fires. 

Advantages and Disadvantages of Underground Cables

Underground cables are not left behind overhead power lines. Homeowners across Sydney are adopting this equipment due to the aesthetic it provides. However, there are also some disadvantages associated with going this route. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of underground cables:

Aesthetics

Due to its location, underground cables provide a cleaner look to any residential and commercial property. It provides a complete view of the property without any obstructions, unlike when an overhead power line is installed. 

Not Exposed to External Factors

Unlike overhead power cables, underground cables are tucked away from extreme weather and vegetation. Having them out of sight reduces the chances of them being damaged by environmental factors. 

Shorter Life Span

Compared to overhead power cables, underground cables offer a shorter lifespan. Property owners who want longevity should need to reassess and reconsider their non-negotiables when opting for an underground cable.

The Final Verdict?

It really boils down to costs and the neighborhood in which your property is located. Newly developed areas typically have underground power lines which are connected to property from transformer boxes. Whereas, more established and older suburbs will have overhead power lines and private power pole placement. 

At The Local Electrician, we have fully qualified level two electricians who can guide and help throughout the installation and maintenance of overhead and underground cables. Each of our L2 electricians is licensed and insured per the requirements of NSW Fair Trading. It means they have met the requirements and have proven to possess the essentials to hold a NSW electrical license. With over two decades of experience, our team can share what they know so that property owners can intelligently decide on which between the two choices fit their prop