Can A Metal Detector Detect Buried Electrical Wire?
Absolutely yes! A metal detector can detect buried electrical wires. Knowing the exact location of any electrical wires in the ground is essential for safety if you plan on digging or excavating in any area. That’s why it’s important to know that metal detectors can help find electrical wiring that has been buried beneath the ground.
Thanks to their ability to detect metals such as copper, aluminum, and steel, even embedded powerlines and other electrical wires can be easily picked up by most modern metal detectors.
So if you’re looking for a reliable way to protect yourself from potential electrocution hazards when doing work around your property, then investing in an extraordinary all-around metal detector could be just what you need.
How Can A Metal Detector Find Electrical Wire?
Using a high-sensitivity metal detector is an effective way to help locate buried electrical wire. Before taking a typical metal detector out, it’s best to do some research by observing the area around buildings with electricity and checking utility maps for detailed information about different underground power lines like telecommunication cables, sewer, water, and gas pipes.
To get the most out of your quality metal detector when locating electrical wire, adjust the discrimination level to its lowest setting and set the sensitivity to its highest setting. As you sweep your detector over the pre-determined area, you should be able to detect a strong and steady signal that will last throughout the length of the electrical wire.
As you go along, mark each spot where you receive a signal in order to create a path tracing the location of the electrical wire. Once this is done, use spray paint or other visible markers along the wires’ route so they are easily visible afterward. For extra confidence in your findings, restart your search if you lose the signal at any point during scanning.
How Deeply Are Electrical Wires Buried?
Are you wondering how deeply electrical wires in your yard, driveway, or concrete slabs are typically buried? The answer varies depending on where the wires are located.
Electrical wires buried in your yard are usually placed 6 inches beneath the ground, whilst, in a driveway, they should be laid at least 18 inches underground and 4 inches deep inside of concrete slabs.
In many cases, regular detectors can locate buried electrical wire which is the typical maximum depth of 4 to 8 inches deep. If you plan to dig deeper than that – even if it is just a few extra inches – then you should invest in a simple metal detector that can detect up to 18 inches underground.
If your plans involve digging any further than this, however, it would be best to call in an expert from a utility company to quickly and accurately locate all the electrical wires for you.
The Top Metal Detectors For Finding Buried Electrical Wire
Hundreds of metal detectors are available in the market for detecting underground wires. The following models of metal detectors are great for finding buried treasure:
Garrett Ace 300
The Garrett Ace 300 is one of the top underground metal detectors for finding a buried electrical wire in your yard. It can detect depths of 8 to 10 inches, making it perfect for locating this type of buried wire. And best of all, you don’t have to break the bank – its price tag is under $400!
But higher-end detectors come with a lower cost and the Garret Ace 300 is no exception. With its quality construction and accurate readings, the Garrett Ace 300 really is a great all-purpose metal detector at a reasonable price point. You won’t be disappointed!
Garrett ATX Deepseeker
The Garrett ATX Deepseeker is the top long-range metal detector choice for finding buried electrical wire underneath the surface. With incredible detection depths of up to 18 inches and beyond, this model offers the best performance for locating even the deepest wires. Plus, it is waterproof up to 10 feet, so you won’t have to worry about damage from rain or another water contact.
At a price tag of $2,500, the Garrett ATX Deepseeker may be a bit pricier than other models on the market; however, its unbeatable performance and features make it worth every penny.
Whether you’re looking for treasure or simply want to locate hidden underground wires, this effective metal detector will give you reliable results that can’t be found with any other model.
What Metals Are Used To Make Electrical Wire?
When it comes to making electrical wires, the chosen materials are aluminum and copper. To give the wire added strength against becoming damaged underground, a steel core is also used. For insulation purposes, the aluminum and copper wires are coated in PVC (polyvinyl chloride), so that they don’t come into contact with any other conductive materials.
In order to make an electrical wire more cost-effective, aluminum and copper are mixed together instead of solely using just copper. This is because copper is heavy and pricey, while aluminum is lighter and cheaper than its counterpart.
The steel core helps keep the wire stabilized while in use and ensures that it can withstand being buried underground with no issues.
Is It Safe to Use a Metal Detector to Locate Buried Electrical Wire?
Yes, it is safe to use a metal detector for electrical lines when locating buried electrical wires. Using a metal detector designed for this purpose can help you avoid accidentally damaging the wires and ensure the safety of your electrical work.
Conclusion
After considering all the facts, it is clear that metal detectors can indeed detect buried electrical wires. With the appropriate adjustments to the discrimination settings, these detectors can accurately pinpoint where these wires are buried.
If this kind of work is outside of your comfort zone, then it may be best to contact your local utility or electric company for further help. Nevertheless, an excellent detector is an essential tool for anyone who wants to locate any type of buried wire.