Installing your own electrical wiring can seem daunting, but with the right planning and safety precautions, it can also be a great way to save money on home improvement projects. As a handy homeowner, learning the basics of electrical work allows you to take more renovation projects into your own hands.
Safety First When Working with Electrical Wiring
Working with electrical wiring carries risks of electrocution and electrical fires if proper precautions are not taken. Before touching any wires, be sure to:
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Turn off the main power switch - Locate the main breaker box and switch off the main circuit breaker switch that controls power to the entire home.
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Unplug devices - Unplug any lamps, appliances or devices that will be near the wiring work area.
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Test wires before touching - Use a non-contact voltage tester to double check that power is off to any wires you plan to work on.
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Wear rubber soled shoes - Do not work barefoot and avoid damp areas. Wear shoes with rubber soles while working.
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Use insulated tools - Only use wire strippers, pliers and other hand tools that are properly insulated for electrical work.
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Work with new wiring only - Installing new wiring is safest. Avoid re-wiring old wires in walls whenever possible.
Planning Your Wiring Project
Careful planning ensures your DIY electrical project goes smoothly and wiring runs where you need it.
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Consider hiring an electrician for any large scale re-wiring work, especially for 240V circuits.
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Get necessary permits - Contact your local building department to learn about permit requirements. Electrical work often requires permits.
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Draw up plans - Sketch layouts of new lighting, switches, and outlets. Indicate wiring routes between.
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Determine wire gauge needed - Heavier 12 or 14 gauge wire is often required for 240V circuits. Use 15A or 20A rated wiring for standard 120V branch circuits.
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Choose suitable wires - Copper wiring is standard. Use only electrical wiring rated for in-wall use.
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Include a few extra wires - Run some spare wires to prepare for future circuits or device additions.
Installing Electrical Wiring
Follow basic steps to safely install new electrical wiring in your home:
1. Run Cables Between Outlets and Fixtures
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Cut access holes between studs using a drywall saw to route cables between boxes.
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Fish cables through walls using fish tape. Keep runs as direct as possible.
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Drill holes in wall plates, joists or headers as needed to pass wires between rooms.
2. Prepare Cables at Box Locations
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Carefully strip cable ends using wire strippers. Expose 1/2" of bare copper at ends.
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Install cables into the backs of boxes or clamps. Provide 8" to 10" of extra cable inside the box.
3. Connect Switches and Outlets
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Use wire connectors to connect hot, neutral and ground wires to devices.
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Follow manufacturer wiring diagrams. Use pigtails to connect multiple wires.
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Carefully position the wired device inside the box and screw into place.
4. Connect Wires to Breaker Panel
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Shut off main breaker again before working inside the panel.
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Connect cable ends to new circuit breakers. Securely tighten terminal screws over bare wire ends.
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Neatly organize all cables running into the main panel.
5. Test Circuits and Make Repairs
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Turn the main breaker back on. Check for power at each outlet using a tester.
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Flip breakers off and back on to verify the correct branch circuit powers each run.
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Inspect all connections for problems. Re-do any loose connections.
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Install face plates and devices once all wiring is confirmed working properly.
Safety Tips for DIY Electrical
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Never work on live wires. Double check wires are unpowered using a non-contact voltage tester before touching.
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Use extreme care when working inside the main breaker panel. Never touch bus bars or service entry cables.
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Do not attempt any work involving the main service entry cables or utility meter. Call an electrician for this type of work.
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Wire connections should be tight. Loose connections can lead to arcs, sparks and fires.
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Label new wires clearly. Note which breaker controls each new wire run.
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Hire an electrician if you feel uncomfortable performing any electrical tasks. Safety should be the top priority.
With good planning and by following basic electrical safety rules, installing your own light fixtures, switches and outlets can be an enjoyable DIY project that saves money. Pay close attention to detail, work carefully, and consider hiring a professional electrician for any tasks you are unsure about.