Can You Run Electrical Wire and Ethernet in the Same Hole?

Can You Run Electrical Wire and Ethernet in the Same Hole?

In most residential situations, you should not run electrical power wire and Ethernet cable through the same hole in framing. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code and standard wiring practice require separation between Class 1 power wiring and Class 2 low-voltage signal cables. Running them together creates interference problems and potential code violations, depending on the cable types and how they are routed.

Why Separation Is Required

• Power wiring can induce electromagnetic interference (EMI) into adjacent Ethernet cable, degrading network performance
• In the event of insulation failure in the power cable, the Ethernet cable and anything connected to it could become energized
• The Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires Class 2 low-voltage cables to maintain separation from power wiring unless the cables have specific ratings that allow proximity

What the Code Allows

Power and low-voltage cables can cross each other (at 90 degrees) without issue. They can also run parallel at a distance if the power cable is rated or shielded appropriately. Shielded Ethernet (STP or SFTP) is more resistant to interference than unshielded (UTP). Running both cables through the same drilled hole in a stud where they would be bundled together is generally not compliant and not recommended even where technically arguable.

Conduit Provides Separation

If you need both to run in the same general area, use separate conduits or dedicated holes. Metal conduit around the power wire provides shielding and physical separation. This is the cleanest solution where both types of cabling must follow the same path through a wall or floor.

EZSMART runs new circuits and low-voltage rough-ins across Ontario. Contact us for proper separation and code-compliant installation of both power and data infrastructure.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp