Enclosing cables and CH pipes

[PeterWHC]

Ever since we moved into our house (17 years ago) there have been a couple of ring-mail cables running up the corner of our hall in close proximity to the pipes that run upstairs from the boiler (which is under the stairs.

Some time ago an electrician added a cooker socket into our kitchen. Because the comsumer unit is in the hall near the top of the pipes, he also routed his cable in the same fashion (ie down beside the pipes and through the cupboard under the stairs and then out the other side to the kitchen). I therefore assume that this is acceptable practice?

There has never been any problems and the cables are clearly not damaged by the heat in any away.

However, at the weekend I have now boxed in the pipes (and the cables) into the same enclosure made with battens on the wall and MDF. Is there any danger that the cables (now in an enclosed space with the pipes) might suffer from the heat?

Should I fit a vent grill to the enclosure?

Expert thoughts welcome,

Thanks

Peter

 

[Steve]

I doubt the cables would be damaged, but being in a hot environment reduces their current carrying capacity, the effect is similar to insulation. I would fit a vent top and bottom, to dissipate the heat and create a draught inside the enclosure.

 

[PeterWHC]

I would fit a vent top and bottom, to dissipate the heat and create a draught inside the enclosure.

Thanks Crafty,

Sounds like good advice; I'll do it at the weekend.

Peter