What should you do if a rat chews through a wire? - briefly
Turn off the power to the compromised circuit, replace the severed cable, and seal all potential rodent entry points; then implement a pest‑control program to prevent recurrence.
What should you do if a rat chews through a wire? - in detail
When a rodent gnaws a cable, first eliminate the electrical hazard. Locate the affected circuit and switch off the breaker or disconnect the power source to prevent shock or fire. Verify that the power is off with a non‑contact voltage tester before proceeding.
Inspect the damaged section. Determine whether the insulation is merely exposed or if the conductor is broken. If the wire is intact but the sheath is compromised, apply a temporary splice using heat‑shrink tubing and electrical tape. For severed conductors, cut back to healthy insulation, strip the ends, and install a proper junction using rated connectors and heat‑shrink sleeves.
Replace the compromised segment with new cable that meets the same gauge and rating. Secure the replacement with cable staples or clamps, ensuring no slack that could attract further chewing. Route the wire away from known rodent pathways whenever possible.
Implement preventive measures:
- Seal entry points: caulk gaps, install steel mesh around openings, and repair damaged vent screens.
- Install physical barriers: conduit or metal raceways around vulnerable runs.
- Deploy deterrents: ultrasonic devices, peppermint oil strips, or commercial rodent repellents.
- Set traps or bait stations in affected areas, monitoring for activity.
Record the incident, including location, extent of damage, and corrective actions. If the wiring serves critical systems or the repair exceeds basic competency, contact a licensed electrician to certify the work and restore full operation.