How to Save Money by Installing Your Own Home Electrical System

Installing your own home electrical system can seem daunting, but with proper planning and precautions, it can also lead to significant cost savings. Here is a step-by-step guide to safely and successfully installing residential electrical systems on your own.

Assessing Your Electrical Needs

Before beginning any electrical project, you need to thoroughly evaluate your home's electrical requirements.

Take Inventory of All Electrical Devices

Make a list of all existing and desired electrical devices and fixtures in your home. Be exhaustive and include:

• Lighting - indoor and outdoor lights, under cabinet lighting, etc.
• Major appliances - refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, etc.
• Small appliances - toaster, blender, coffee maker.
• Entertainment systems - TVs, computers, gaming consoles.
• Climate control - HVAC system, ceiling fans.
• Security and safety - smoke detectors, security system.
• And more - garage door openers, pool pumps, etc.

Calculate Total Wattage

Add up the wattage of all electrical devices on your inventory. This gives the minimum capacity your electrical system needs to handle. Allow for future expansions too.

Evaluate Electrical Panels

Inspect your existing electrical panels. Are they sufficient for your calculated load? If not, upgrades may be needed.

Consult Electric Codes

Review national and local electric codes for residential wiring. Follow all regulations and safety standards.

Designing and Planning Electrical Circuits

Next, map out the wiring plan for your home.

Circuit Types

Categorize each device into either:

• General lighting - Typically 15 amp circuits.
• Major appliances - Dedicated 20 amp circuits.
• Specialty - For high draw devices like AC.

Draw Circuit Diagrams

Sketch circuit diagrams indicating:

• Locations of circuits, outlets, switches.
• Circuit loads and voltage.
• Wire gauges needed.
• Safety mechanisms like GFCIs.

Choose Wiring Methods

Decide how wiring will be run - through conduits, inside walls, under floors, etc.

Gathering Supplies and Materials

Obtain all the electrical equipment and supplies required.

Wiring and Cables

• Wire gauge - Match to circuit amperage loads.
• Wiring insulation - NMB cables for indoor, UF for outdoor.
• Conduit - EMT thin wall for indoor, PVC for outdoor.

Boxes and Hardware

• Junction boxes - For housing connections and splices.
• Outlet and switch boxes - Match the location and purpose.
• Conduit fittings - Elbows, couplings, connectors.

Safety Gear

• Personal protective equipment - Insulated gloves, eye protection.
• Voltage tester - To confirm electricity is off.
• Circuit breakers - For overcurrent protection.

And More

• Receptacles, light fixtures, disconnects, labels, etc.

Installing New Electrical Circuits and Equipment

Now comes the hands-on electrical work. Follow all safety procedures.

Turn Off Power

Shut off electricity at the main circuit breaker panel. Use a neon voltage tester to double check.

Mounting Electrical Boxes

Secure outlet, switch, and junction boxes in place as per your wiring diagrams.

Running Cables and Conduit

Run conduit and wiring between boxes and to devices. Use proper cable stripping and splicing.

Connecting Devices and Fixtures

Connect hardwired appliances, lights, and other fixtures to wiring using wire nuts.

Securing Cables

Fasten cables properly using staples, cable ties, or other approved methods.

Testing Circuits

Turn power back on and test each circuit using a multimeter and by operating devices. Check for faults.

Safety Tips

Take precautions when doing electrical work to avoid shocks, fires, and other hazards.

• De-energize circuits before working on them. Double check with a voltage tester.
• Wear insulating gloves and eye protection.
• Avoid working alone. Have someone available to cut power or call 911 if needed.
• Keep fire extinguisher handy.
• Follow codes and regulations. Do not take shortcuts.
• If unsure about any electrical task, contact a certified electrician.

Installing residential electrical systems requires thorough planning, high attention to safety, and adherence to electrical codes. But with caution and care, you can complete your own electrical projects and gain the satisfaction of enhanced electrical safety, functionality, and savings in your home.