Using TPS Cables in Fire-Prone Garages: What You Need to Know

When it comes to wiring your garage, safety should always be the top priority—especially if your garage is exposed to fire hazards like flammable materials, equipment, or even car batteries. One of the most crucial components of electrical safety is the type of cable used. In fire-prone environments, the right cabling can be the difference between a minor incident and a devastating fire. Among the popular options available, TPS cables have become widely used due to their reliability and versatility. But how safe are they in fire-prone garages?

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about using TPS cables in fire-prone garages, how they compare to fire-rated alternatives, and what you should consider when wiring a potentially hazardous area.

What Are TPS Cables?

TPS stands for Thermoplastic Sheathed cable. These are flat, non-metallic cables that consist of one or more insulated conductors enclosed in a protective sheath made of thermoplastic material. They are commonly used for residential and light commercial wiring due to their ease of installation and cost-efficiency.

TPS cables are suitable for dry indoor applications, and they’re often used for power outlets, lighting, and other general wiring needs. While they are robust in normal environments, their performance in fire-prone areas needs special consideration.

Why Fire-Prone Garages Require Special Attention

Garages can be more fire-prone than other parts of a home or building for several reasons:

• Storage of flammable materials like gasoline, oil, or paint.
• Combustion engines and charging stations for electric vehicles.
• Heat-producing tools such as welding machines or space heaters.
• Poor ventilation that can allow heat to build up over time.

All these factors make the selection of wiring in a garage not just a technical decision, but a safety-critical one. Using the wrong type of cable could result in the cable melting or short-circuiting during a fire, potentially accelerating the spread of flames.

Are TPS Cables Safe for Garages?

The safety of using TPS cables in a fire-prone garage depends on several conditions:

• Installation Method: TPS cables must be properly installed away from sources of heat or mechanical damage. If they are exposed, they should be enclosed in a conduit to reduce fire risk.
• Environment: TPS cables are not designed for prolonged exposure to high heat or flammable vapors. If your garage routinely experiences high temperatures or contains flammable substances, you may want to consider alternatives.
• Fire Compliance Standards: In certain areas, building codes may restrict the use of standard TPS cables in fire-prone zones unless they are installed with fire protection measures.

In general, while TPS cables can be used in garages, they may not provide the highest level of protection in the event of a fire. That’s where fire rated cables come into play.

What Are Fire Rated Cables?

Fire rated cables are designed to maintain circuit integrity during a fire for a specified period. These cables are typically used in emergency circuits like fire alarms, smoke detectors, and emergency lighting systems. They’re engineered to withstand high temperatures and resist burning, ensuring that critical systems continue to function during a fire.

In contrast to TPS cables, fire-rated cables often come with features like mica tapes or special insulation that can handle temperatures above 900°C, depending on the rating.

When to Use 2hr Fire Rated Cables

If your garage contains essential systems—such as a backup power supply or electric vehicle charging station—you might consider installing 2hr fire rated cables. These cables are tested to maintain their function for up to two hours under fire conditions. That added window of operational time can be crucial for maintaining safety and allowing emergency systems to remain functional.

A two-hour fire rating is often required in commercial and industrial settings, but even homeowners may choose this level of protection if they want to go the extra mile to safeguard their property and loved ones.

The Role of Flat White Stripe Cables

Among the many types of fire-rated cables, flat white stripe cables are gaining popularity for their easy identification and installation. These are typically used in settings where visual indicators of cable type are important for compliance and safety audits. The white stripe helps electricians and inspectors quickly verify the type of cable used, reducing the risk of accidental misuse.

In fire-prone garages, where multiple cable types may be used, flat white stripe cables can make it easier to distinguish fire-rated lines from standard wiring, enhancing the overall safety of the system.

Wrapping Up:

Using TPS cables in a fire-prone garage is possible, but it’s not always the best or safest choice—especially when fire risks are high or when essential systems are involved. When in doubt, consult with a licensed electrician and consider upgrading to fire-rated cables for peace of mind.If you’d like help assessing your garage’s wiring or upgrading to safer options, don’t hesitate to reach out to a certified professional. Your home—and everyone in it—is worth protecting.