Wiring a home can seem like a daunting task, but with the right planning and safety precautions, it is possible for a homeowner to wire their own home's electrical system on a budget. Proper wiring is essential for powering lights, outlets, and appliances throughout the home while remaining up to code and avoiding hazards. Follow this guide to learn the basics of residential electrical systems and how to wire your home yourself affordably.
Learning About Home Electrical Systems
Before beginning any electrical project, it is crucial to understand the components of a home's electrical system and how they work together. This will help you plan your wiring project, purchase the correct materials, and ensure safety.
The Main Electrical Service Panel
The electrical service panel, commonly known as the breaker box, is the central hub of a home's electrical system. This panel connects to the utility power lines and distributes electricity throughout the home via circuit breakers and wiring. The main service panel will have:
- Main breaker - This controls power from the utility lines to the whole panel.
- Individual circuit breakers - These control power to specific circuits in the home. Each circuit powers a dedicated section of lighting, outlets, or appliances.
Voltage in a Home
- Most homes in the United States use 120 and 240-volt power. 120V is standard for lighting and outlet circuits. 240V is used for large appliances like electric dryers, air conditioners, and electric ranges.
Wiring and Cables
There are a few common types of electrical wiring and cable used in homes:
- Non-metallic sheathed cable (NM, also known as Romex) - This is flexible plastic-coated wiring used for indoor 15 and 20 amp branch circuits. NM cable comes with 2-4 bundled wires.
- Armored cable (AC) - Also known as BX, this has an outer flexible metal covering, usually aluminum or steel, protecting inner wires. Used for exposed wiring.
- Conduit - Metal or plastic tubing that protects wires routed through it. Conduit allows wires to be easily changed or added.
Grounding and Bonding
Proper grounding and bonding is a safety essential. Grounding gives electricity a safe path to flow if something goes wrong. Bonding connects all grounded metal parts in the electrical system so they are at equal voltage. This prevents shocks.
Creating a Wiring Plan
Careful planning is vital when wiring a home. Consider:
- Existing wiring and any changes needed
- Any new lighting, switches, or outlets needed in each room
- Appliances requiring dedicated circuits and 240V power
- Materials and estimated costs for each wiring task
Codes and Permits
Always check your local area's electrical code requirements before beginning. Most areas require permits for wiring work. Submit your wiring plan for review before purchasing materials to ensure it meets code.
Circuit Planning
Plan which lighting, outlets, and appliances will be powered by each new circuit you run. Follow general circuit guidelines:
- 15 amp circuits for outlets and basic lighting
- 20 amp for high-power lights (bathroom vanities, workshop lights)
- Dedicated 20 amp small appliance circuits in kitchen
- Individual 30 amp circuits for large appliances
Purchasing Materials
Once your wiring plan is complete, you can purchase the necessary materials. Shopping for deals and buying in bulk can save significantly. You will need:
- NM cable or armored cable - For any new wiring runs. Calculate total length needed for each run and buy extra.
- Breakers - For new circuits in the main panel. Match amperage rating to circuit wire gauge.
- Electrical boxes - For connecting switches, outlets, lights. Plastic or metal.
- Switches and outlets - Match quantity to number needed.
- Wire connectors - To join wires. Get variety pack for different wire numbers.
- Conduit - If using a conduit wiring method. Get correct diameter.
- Grounding rods and copper wire - If an additional grounding electrode system is needed.
Safety Gear and Tools
Installing home wiring requires working with live electrical components. Be sure to purchase and use proper safety gear:
- Electrical gloves - Protect from shocks. Leather gloves over rubber glove liners provide insulation.
- Safety glasses - Prevent eye injuries from sparks or debris.
- Dust mask - Reduces risk of breathing insulation particles or mold.
- Voltage tester - Detect live power. Test wires before touching.
- Cable ripper and stripper - Removes sheathing and strips wire insulation.
You will also need common electrical tools:
- Lineman's pliers - For bending, cutting, gripping wires. Insulated.
- Electrical tape - Covers wires and connections. Self-fusing silicone makes clean connections.
- Cable stapler - Secures cables running through studs.
- Fish tape - Runs through walls to pull cables.
- Multimeter - Tests voltage, resistance, continuity to troubleshoot.
- Drill and drill bits - Drills holes for running cables.
- Hack saw - Cuts metal conduit.
- Hammer drill - Drills concrete if running outdoor grounding.
Installing New Wiring and Circuits
Once you understand home electrical systems and have all necessary materials and tools, you are ready to install new wiring. Follow these general steps:
Turn Off Power
Turn off power at the main breaker before working. Use a contact voltage tester to confirm it is off.
Run Cables
Run cables between the service panel and device boxes. Follow code for securing wires every 4.5 ft. Use cable ripper and stripper.
Mount Electrical Boxes
Mount plastic or metal boxes where devices and lights will be located. Anchor securely to studs or joists.
Connect Switches and Outlets
Connect the ends of the cables to devices inside boxes using wire connectors. Follow diagrams.
Connect to Service Panel
Run cable into service panel through knockouts and connect to new circuit breakers following diagrams.
Label and Organize
Label all wires and breakers clearly. Keep service panel wires tidy and organized.
Inspect and Turn On
Have an electrician inspect wiring before turning power back on. Then test operation of each circuit.
Safety Tips
Working with electrical systems is hazardous if proper precautions aren't taken:
- Shut off power - Always turn off electricity at the main breaker before touching any wires.
- Personal protective equipment - Wear rubber soled shoes, gloves, glasses, and other PPE when working.
- Use insulated tools - Choose tools designed to protect from shocks.
- Check wires with tester - Verify power is off with a non-contact voltage tester before handling wires.
- Connect grounding - Properly ground all new wiring according to code to prevent shocks.
- Get professional help - Hire an electrician if any part of the project is too complex.
By following this guide and putting safety first, you can successfully wire new circuits in your home. Take it slowly, be cautious, and get inspections to ensure you meet electrical code.