Install Residential Electrical Wiring Safely and Easily: A Step-by-Step Guide
Rather than enlisting the help of a professional to install residential electrical wiring, experienced do-it-yourselfers can complete the job themselves with a bit of preparation and a commitment to following all safety standards. If you’re tackling the project yourself, then familiarize yourself with the different types of residential wires you’ll be using. The hot wires are typically the red and black wires that conduct electricity from the circuit breaker to the electrical appliance, while the white wire, referred to as Neutral, returns the electricity back to the electric panel. The ground wire, which is usually bare, does not conduct electricity and is instead connected to the frame of the appliance and to ground. Note that the ground wire and the white wire should never be connected together.
When it comes to the type of wire you’ll be using, twelve-gauge is good for items that require a high power supply, such as a heater, blow dryer, toaster, or microwave oven. In contrast, fourteen-gauge wire is best for light fixtures and other non-specific outlets. Once you’ve got the right type of wire picked out, take a good look at the plans for the rooms in which you need to install the residential wiring. Figure out what type of appliances will be wired in and how many outlets you’ll need. Additionally, you’ll need to assess where it will be safe to place your outlets and switches. As a general rule of thumb, outlets should be placed at least sixteen inches above the floor, while electrical switches should be placed at least forty-eight inches above the floor.
The next step is to ensure that your electric panel is able to accommodate your needs. In addition to the largest circuit breaker, which connects your home to the electrical grid, each room will have at least one, and often more than one small circuit breaker. Legal standards for the exact number of circuit breakers and outlets vary according to city and state, so double check with your local authorities to be sure. Generally, however, your main circuit panel should have at least two hundred amps with a capacity of at least forty locations for various circuit breakers throughout the house.
Don’t forget to gather the supplies you’ll need before beginning your wiring project, such as electrical outlets and switches, the wire and frame, as well as any tools you don’t currently have that may be required to complete the job. When you’re ready to start, make sure to take all the necessary safety precautions, such as shutting off the power, and be sure to double check your work thoroughly as you go, since mistakes can result in electric shock, fire hazards, and much worse.
Installing residential electrical wiring is a job that carries with it inherent risks, so it is best suited for experienced do-it-yourselfers who understand the local electrical codes. With the right information, supplies, and safety precautions, you can feel confident tackling the job yourself. Following these simple steps is the best way to ensure you’ll get the job done right and enjoy all your new electrical appliances for years to come.
