Electrical
Wiring
a house or addition can be a very rewarding experience. If you are needing a new
service panel, you may want to jump right ahead to the electrical contractor
section of your phone book. This will involve your electrical service provider
and is not a simple procedure. However, if you are wiring an addition or a home,
ensure you refer to your book and really understand what you are doing. Pay
close attention to sizes of wire you
need for each circuit. I very seldom pull any romex smaller than 12 guage. I
find the cost difference insignificant next to the security of
knowing wire is not going to
heat up due to a heater or some other heavy duty appliance.
Seth is a mathematician, who became an electrician during the course of wiring a new guesthouse. He followed directions, and codes, wired everything himself and saved about $7500.00. And, Yes, Everything worked.
Pay close attention to diagrams when wiring switches and receptacles. Ensure your polarity is correct. Black to the gold screw and white to the silver screw is a pretty safe bet when it comes to plugs.
A few important definitions:
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A neutral wire is a conductor within an alternating current (AC) electrical distribution system which is intended to carry current and is also intended to be connected to earth (UK and EU) or ground (USA). This is the white wire. (The terms "earth" and "ground" herein refer to specific points or conductors within the electrical system and not necessarily to actual soil.)
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A Live wire is a wire which is powered. This is the black wire.
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Common is the terminal on a switch that you attach the power to. Never insert the switch into the neutral side of the circuit.
Tools and Materials
DISCLAIMER - The views and opinions presented on this web site are that only. Views and opinions based upon our experience as owner builders. We are not responsible for any loss or injury resulting from any information obtained on this site. We are not licensed contractors and are not attempting to sell you any contracting services.