February 18, 2012 By ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under Basement Wiring, Electrical Wiring

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Basement Lighting Project

Basement Lighting Project

 

Basement Wiring and Local Electrical Codes

I installed 10 each recessed lighting in my basement.

  • I ran 14 gauge wiring from the lights to the switches to the breaker box using 20 amp breakers.
  • The wires run from from the breaker box to the switches to the lighting.
  • Is there anything I left out in between before I cover up the wiring with sheet rock?

This electrical question came from: Ray, a Handyman from Wichita, Kansas
Additional Comments: I LOVE THIS SITE!!! It’s helped me with so many electrical questions!

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Ray.

Installing Basement Electrical Wiring

  • I really don’t know the full scope of your basement wiring project, but I will urge you to check your project plan with your local building department who will go one step further and compare exactly what you are doing and insert any local code requirements, such as smoke detectors and GFI outlets for example.
  • It really depends on what you plan to do with this space. I can see right away that you made a mistake by placing the 14 gauge wire on a 20 amp circuit, when it should be on a 15 amp circuit.
  • So don’t close up the walls with sheet rock just yet until you get a total understanding of what is at stake here.
  • People get too rushed to get their projects done while overlooking some very fundamental items.
  • Don’t worry, your not alone, I have seen this happen with homeowners and even general contractors who are focused on getting it done and while that is important let’s make sure you don’t leave anything out.
  • Working with your local building department is essential and having the work inspected is very important as well.

The Following links will assist you with Basement Electrical Wiring

 

2-pole-circuit-breaker
Electrical Wiring Protection using Circuit Breakers
A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring. When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device.

electrical wire
electrical-wire
Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.

Recessed lighting
halo-sm
How To Install Recessed Lighting
This article is about recessed lighting for your home electrical improvements. Discover how recessed lighting can enhance the mood of any room in your home.

Basement electrical wiring
basement-wiring
Basement Electrical Wiring for the Home
Understanding circuit options for basement electrical wiring will help you determine the electrical load requirements. This information will help as a home electrical basement wiring guide.

You identified your project to be about Electrical Wiring, so you might find this information useful:
Electrical Wiring
Electrical Wiring
Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring projects with pictures and wiring diagrams.


Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all projects.
For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor in Your Area

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