What is an underground power cable?

An underground power cable is specially designed to be laid below ground. Its outer sheath can withstand moisture and the pressure of the surrounding soil, allowing the cable to safely supply power for years. This makes it fundamentally different from an ordinary extension lead: an extension lead should never be buried, not even temporarily.

What do you use it for?

If you want lighting at the back of the garden, along a path or beside a border, the power needs to reach it without cables trailing across your lawn or patio. With an underground power cable, you can create a fixed, hidden connection to an outdoor floor lamp, ground light or outdoor socket, for example. This is not only tidier, but also considerably safer: there's nothing to trip over and no risk of the lawnmower catching the cable.

What to look for when laying it

Lay the cable at a sufficient depth so that you won't hit it with a spade or shovel when working in the garden later. Where appropriate, lay it in a protective conduit and keep a record of where the cable runs. Take a photo or make a note before filling in the trench. It may seem excessive, but in a few years' time you probably won't remember exactly where it runs, and you'll want to know where you can and can't dig.

Connecting safely

Make sure connections in the garden are properly waterproof using the right connectors. A fixed outdoor connection should be installed in accordance with the applicable regulations, preferably on a separate circuit with residual-current protection. If you're unsure about laying or connecting the cable, have it done by a professional. The specifications are listed for each cable in the product details.