How to Safely Install Exposed Conduit in Older Homes

Introduction

Installing exposed conduit in older homes can provide an aesthetic look while also making it easier to access wiring for repairs or upgrades. However, special care must be taken when working with older construction materials. Safety should always be the top priority. In this guide, I will walk through the key steps and considerations for safely installing exposed conduit in older homes.

Planning the Conduit Route

• Carefully examine the areas you intend to run conduit and note any potential obstacles or hazards. Look for asbestos, lead paint, weak structural points, etc.
• Map out the full conduit route ahead of time. Plan where bends will occur and how you will fish the conduit through walls/ceilings.
• Account for any HVAC, plumbing, or other systems in the planned route. Avoid crossing through these areas when possible.
• For long straight runs, use 10' conduit pieces to minimize joints. For frequent bends, use shorter pieces to prevent kinking.

Securing and Mounting the Conduit

• Use conduit hangers or clamps designed for the conduit size. Space hangers every 4-5 feet along straight runs.
• When mounting to wall studs, use proper length and gauge screws to hold conduit firmly. Avoid over-tightening.
• Use conduit straps for mounting around beams or other solid structures. Straps distribute force evenly.
• Avoid using nails or basic wire for hanging conduit - they can damage the integrity of the system.

Dealing with Old Materials

• When drilling into lath and plaster walls, use a hammer drill on a low setting to prevent cracking plaster. Vacuum during drilling.
• Test suspicious materials for asbestos before cutting or drilling. Improper handling of asbestos can be dangerous.
• Wear proper PPE when dealing with lead paint or other hazardous substances commonly found in old homes.

Fishing and Pulling Conduit

• Use cable lubricant and guide lines when fishing conduit through walls and ceilings. This reduces friction and chance of kinking.
• Take care not to use excessive force when pulling wires through conduit or risk breaking wires.
• Use fish tape, mouse lines, or magnets to retrieve dropped items inside conduit runs. Avoid reaching inside live conduits.

Terminating the Conduit

• Use watertight conduit fittings for any outdoor terminus points. This prevents moisture ingress.
• Properly bond conduit runs containing electrical wiring. Bonding jumpers equalize electrical potential.
• Install bushings or insulated throats at conduit ends to protect wiring from sharp edges. Prevent wire fraying.
• Label both ends of conduit runs to identify their purpose and destination. This assists with future maintenance.

Final Safety Checks

• Verify all conduit connections are mechanically and electrically secure.
• Check for any stray metal fragments, dust, or other debris left inside conduit runs during installation.
• Test installed conduit grounding and bonding per NEC code before running live electrical.
• Examine all structural attachments for soundness. Conduit should be firmly secured and not able to move.

By taking the necessary planning and precautionary steps, exposed conduit can be installed safely in older homes while adding aesthetic appeal. Always exercise caution when dealing with aging construction materials. Following best practices for mounting, terminating, and testing conduit will result in a safe and reliable installation.