Why must conductors be protected within walls or ceilings?

Conductors must be protected within walls or ceilings primarily to prevent physical damage and ensure safety. When conduits or cables are installed behind walls or above ceilings, there is a risk that they could be inadvertently exposed to impacts, abrasion, or other forms of mechanical stress that could lead to insulation damage or short circuits. Such damage not only jeopardizes the integrity of the electrical system but also creates significant safety hazards, such as the potential for electrical fires or shock injuries. By enclosing conductors within protective materials, installers safeguard them from everyday activities, environmental factors, and potential construction alterations that could lead to dangerous situations.

While it’s true that operating at maximum voltage and enhancing energy efficiency are important considerations in electrical design, they are not the primary reasons for conducting protection within walls or ceilings. Similarly, reducing the overall length of wiring is more related to installation practices and may not directly relate to the necessity for protection. Hence, the focus remains on the protection of conductors to maintain a safe and functioning electrical system.