Potassium chloride (KCl), also known as muriate of potash, potash and salt substitute, is a water soluble compound that can be used for fertilizers, potassium supplements, minerals, electrolytes and other uses. Like many other compounds it is a conductor of electricity and heat. KCl conducts in its solid form because it contains charged ions that are free to move around.
When dissolved in water KCl is a strong electrolyte. A strong electrolyte is one that completely ionizes in solution and contains large numbers of ions. When voltage is applied across the solution, ion pairs K+(potassium ions) and Cl-(chloride ions) are drawn towards each other and carry electric current. This is a good thing and allows for fast transfer of energy between electrodes.
The reason why KCl is a good conductor of electricity is because it has an outer electron shell with only one electron, which means the atom can easily lose that electron to become positively charged ions. These ions can then travel between electrodes and create an electric current.
Although KCl does conduct electricity in its solid state, it is not suitable for use in electrical wires. As it is a reactive element, potassium reacts with oxygen in the air and water, and this causes a chemical reaction that releases hydrogen gas which can cause an explosion. This makes it unsafe to use in electrical wiring. This is why it cannot be found in your home, whereas sodium chloride, for example, can be used as an alternative.