Installing your own electrical wiring can be a great way to save money on home improvement projects. However, working with electricity safely is extremely important. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to install electrical wiring in your home.
Research Electrical Codes and Permits
The first step is to research the electrical codes in your local area. Most jurisdictions require permits for electrical work, so you'll need to apply for a permit before getting started.
Importance of Permits
Getting the proper permits is crucial for legal and safety reasons. Permits ensure your work will be inspected by the local building department. The inspectors will verify your wiring meets the required electrical code. Permits also provide legal permission to move forward with the work.
Finding Electrical Codes
The National Electrical Code (NEC) forms the basis of most local electrical codes. However, your jurisdiction may have specific amendments. Check with your local building department to get copies of the legal electrical codes where you live.
Applying for a Permit
The permit application will likely require you to provide details about the proposed electrical work. This includes the location, scope of work, and types of materials to be used. Permit fees are generally based on the size of the job.
Choose the Right Materials
Selecting the proper materials is key to creating safe, long-lasting electrical wiring.
Wire
- Use copper wiring meeting code requirements for size (gauge) and insulation type. Aluminum wiring requires special handling.
- Non-metallic sheathed wire is common for 15-amp and 20-amp residential circuits.
- Metallic conduits can also carry wiring, but require more installation work.
Boxes and Connectors
- Electrical boxes house connections and outlets. Plastic or metal boxes meeting NEC rules are acceptable.
- Use UL-listed connectors matched to the gauge and number of wires. Wing nut connectors are good for pigtail connections.
Circuit Breakers and Fuses
- Choose circuit breakers or fuses of the proper amperage rating for overcurrent protection.
- Use circuit breakers for new construction and fuse boxes upgrades.
Outlets and Switches
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Pick standard 15-amp or 20-amp residential grade outlets and switches in the desired styles.
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GFCI outlets provide protection from shocks in wet areas.
Lights and Fans
- Verify lights and fans are compatible with the circuits you are installing. Note any dimmer requirements.
Install the Electrical Panel
The home's main electrical panel distributes power to all the circuits. Follow code for installing a suitable new panel if needed.
Location
The main electrical panel should be installed in a dry location with at least 3 feet of clear space in front. Garages, basements, and utility rooms are typical locations.
Amp Capacity
Choose a main breaker panel appropriately sized for your home's designed electrical load. 100 amps or 200 amps are common capacities.
Connecting Wires
Securely connect the hot, neutral, and grounding wires to the proper terminals in the panel. Follow code for required wire sizes.
Breakers
Install appropriate circuit breakers for each new circuit you'll be connecting to. Follow ampacity ratings and label all breakers clearly.
Run Power to New Locations
Next, you can start running wiring to any boxes, outlets, switches or fixtures needing new power.
Cable Routing
Plan safe routes to route new power cables through walls, floors, and attics as required. Drill holes to pass wires through studs or joists.
Box Installation
Securely mount all electrical boxes where fixtures, devices, and connections will be located. Size boxes per NEC rules for the number of wires entering.
Pulling Cables
Carefully pull the cables through the route to each box. Leave some extra wire at the ends to work with. Avoid kinks or damage to the insulation.
Outlet and Switch Boxes
Connect wires to outlets, switches, and light fixtures in each box following basic circuit wiring diagrams. Verify ground connections.
Do the Final Connections
With the cables run and boxes wired up, finish by connecting everything back to the main panel.
Breaker Connections
Connect the hot wire from each new circuit to the proper circuit breaker in the panel. Follow code for required wire sizes.
Neutral and Ground
Attach all the white neutral wires together under the neutral bus bar in the panel. Also connect all ground wires and a ground rod to the ground bus.
Cover Panel
Double check all connections are tight and properly arranged in the panel. The black hot wires should be on breakers, white neutrals on the neutral bus, and grounds on the ground bus.
Verify Safety
Restore the cover on the panel before turning power back on. Then carefully test each outlet, switch and light to verify proper operation.
Call for Inspection
The final step is to request an inspection of the completed electrical work. Fix any issues the inspector identifies before final approval. You worked hard, saved money, and now can enjoy your new electrical wiring!