I wanted to wire my home electrical system myself to save money on hiring an electrician. However, working with electricity can be extremely dangerous if not done properly. Here is how I safely wired my home electrical system without any prior electrical experience.

Research Electrical Wiring Methods and Safety Procedures

Before touching any wires, I spent several weeks thoroughly researching home electrical systems and wiring methods. I read books, watched online videos, and took an electrical safety course at my local hardware store. Here are some of the key things I learned:

Purchase Quality Electrical Tools and Materials

Here are the essential electrical tools and materials I acquired:

For the wiring itself, I used only copper wires and top quality electrical boxes, conduit, receptacles, breakers, and other components. I avoided any suspect or counterfeit electrical parts to ensure safety.

Add New Circuits and Outlets

With my tools gathered and safety knowledge in hand, I was ready to start wiring. Here is the process I followed to add new lighting and outlet circuits:

1. Plan circuit locations and sizes

I mapped out where I wanted new outlets and lights on paper. Based on appliance loads and local codes, I planned circuits of the proper amperage and voltage. This ensured safe circuit capacities.

2. Mount new breaker panel

I installed a new breaker panel with enough slots for my planned circuits. I made sure to isolate and disable the old panel before transferring any wiring over to the new panel.

3. Run cables and conduits

I measured cable routes from the panel to each outlet and switch location. For exposed areas like my basement I used metal conduit while for inside walls I opted for NM Romex cable. I stapled cables securely along their runs.

4. Install electrical boxes

Using my remodel floor plans for guidance, I cut holes and mounted plastic or metal boxes wherever I needed an outlet, switch, or junction point. The boxes kept connections contained.

5. Pull cables through boxes

I fed cables coming from the panel into each box, leaving plenty of extra length for working. I again was meticulous about stapling cables to secure them along their runs.

6. Wire devices and connectors

I carefully matched up hot, neutral, and ground wires with the correct terminals on outlets, switches, and wire connectors. I made sure polarized plugs were oriented properly.

7. Attach cover plates

Once all wiring was complete with no exposed conductors, I screwed on wall plates to cover each box. This provided protection from accidental contact.

8. Connect circuits at breaker panel

At the new breaker panel, I terminated each circuit's hot wires on dedicated breakers while neutral wires were all joined together in a bus strip. Grounds were connected to the ground bus bar.

9. Test each circuit

Before activating the mains power, I used a voltmeter to verify all circuits were dead. I then turned on the breakers one by one while testing each outlet to confirm correct wiring.

Follow Rigid Safety Procedures Throughout

In addition to learning proper techniques, I made safety my top priority when wiring my home. Here are some key precautions I took:

Conclusion

By educating myself thoroughly about home electrical systems, using quality materials, following code requirements, and adhering to rigid safety procedures, I was able to successfully wire new circuits in my home safely. The process took time and diligence, but was very rewarding. My home now has ample lighting, outlets, and electrical capacity for all our needs. Most importantly, I accomplished this without injury by staying focused on safety. If you take appropriate precautions and technical care, you can wire your home safely too. Just be sure to research first and stay vigilant!