subject: Basic Home Wiring [print this page] . Unless you know the basic home wiring techniques, hire a professional to do the job. Your familys very lives hang in the balance especially yours if youre doing the job yourself.
The very first thing you need to do when you do any type of repair even if youre only changing a faulty plug is to TURN OFF THE ELECTRICITY at the control panel. Youll need to know the correct area where youll be working and know the rules and regulations of your local codes for residential wiring. They may be a pain in the neck, but they are there for a reason, and that is to keep you and your family safe.
Know the components of basic electrical wiring. Besides safety considerations and regulations youll need to know the makeup of your home wiring. There are three basics that you should know before you begin.
Know the service entry, in other words know the point in your home where your electrical service goes from the main grid into your home. The entry lines need to be at least ten feet above the ground and free of obstructions like tree limbs. You shouldnt be able to access the service entry from any window in your home, and you want it to be away from all water.
Your panel board is where you have control of your entire home. The panel board is where you will shut off the electricity of a certain area and where you will install new breakers if youre having a major remodel.
The branch circuits mean the isolated areas of your home and where the electricity goes. That way you can cut off the power in your kitchen while leaving the remaining house connected. It is critical that you know the proper areas.
If youre a novice electrician, we cant stress it enough, that you hire a professional electrician to do the work. They know what works and what doesnt. They may be able to save you money in the long run. If they have to get permits to do the job, dont discourage them and you will be able to rest assured that the electricity wiring in your home is up to standard.
Dont ever take short cuts when you and your familys safety is at stake.
