How to Install Invisible Wiring in Your Home

Installing invisible wiring in your home can help reduce clutter and improve aesthetics. Here is an in-depth guide on how to install invisible wiring yourself.

Assess Your Needs

Before starting, think about what invisible wiring you want to install and where.

• Do you want to hide TV, internet or speaker wires?
• Will you install wiring inside walls or under floorboards?
• Map out locations for connections, outlets and components.

Getting a sense of your needs and goals will help the installation go smoothly.

Gather Supplies

You'll need the following supplies:

• Invisible speaker wire or ethernet cable - Make sure it's CL2 or CL3 rated for in-wall use.

• Fish tape - To route wiring through walls.

• Low voltage brackets - To mount outlets and connections.

• Drywall saw - For cutting access holes in drywall.

• Cable tester - To test wiring connections.

• Cable pulls lubri­cant - Reduces friction when running cables.

• Wall plates - Blend outlets into your décor.

• Tools - Drill, screwdriver, hammer, etc.

Get the amount of wiring you need for your project with some extra length.

Plan the Installation

Carefully plan where you'll:

• Fish wiring - Inside wall cavities, through floors, etc. Avoid plumbing and wiring.

• Mount connections - Behind TVs, speakers. Match existing outlet heights.

• Install outlets - Consider furniture layouts.

Map everything out and find routes for running cable through your home.

Prepare and Access

Before installing:

• Turn off power - Shut off electricity to prevent shock.

• Cut access holes - Use a drywall saw to cut outlet and fixture openings.

• Drill entry holes - Drill holes through sill plates and floorboards for routing cables.

• Feed fish tape - Feed it through walls and floors to your access holes.

• Protect floors and walls - Lay down drop cloths to prevent damage.

Carefully prepping will make the wiring much easier.

Route and Install Cables

Now you're ready to install the wiring:

• Attach cables to fish tape - Use electrical or duct tape to securely attach them.

• Pull cables - Have someone feed the fish tape while you pull cables to openings.

• Leave slack - At both ends for trimming and termination.

• Avoid stapling - Don't staple cables as this can damage them.

• Test cables - Use a cable tester to verify connectivity.

Take your time so cables are routed properly without damage.

Connect and Cover Cables

The last steps involve connections and outlet mounting:

• Strip and terminate - Use wire strippers to prep cable ends for connections.

• Anchor cables - Use cable clamps to anchor cables inside boxes and panels.

• Connect devices - Follow manufacturer instructions to connect speakers, TVs, etc.

• Mount brackets and outlets - Secure low voltage brackets and install wall plates and panels.

• Patch and paint - Patch and paint access holes and openings to blend seamlessly.

Once everything is connected and concealed, you can enjoy your invisible wiring!

Hiding wires takes planning and patience but is very rewarding. Following this guide helps ensure success installing invisible wiring throughout your home.