December 20, 2011 By Dave Rongey ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under Cable

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How to Avoid Damaging Electrical Cables Inside Walls

Understanding The Path Of Electrical Cables

• Drilling would occur on the same level as a panel is, same wall, opposite side, about 2 ft away.
• I have no idea how the conductors are run inside the wall to/from the panel and don’t want to hit one.
• Any suggestions?
•  Should I forget this idea?
• Can the electrical wire locators really accurately determine whether there are conductors in that spot?

Thank you very much in advance.

This electrical question came from: Slava, a Homeowner from Brooklyn, New York.
See more about Home Wiring for New York

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

The Basic Fundamentals of Home Electrical Wiring

Salva, you are wise to ask this question before drilling because you have a good chance of hitting an electrical wire and causing damage.

• Electrical circuit wiring is generally run out to the top of a panel or the bottom and often both.
• The electrical panel can be opened by an electrician to visually see which way the cables are headed, however you still don’t know exactly what is happening inside the wall.
• Most walls have outlets and switches so there will be wiring that is looping these devices together running from side to side, and up or down, it all depends on the layout of the dwelling.
• To avoid damaging electrical cables one option would be to open the wall up. If one is careful the removal of a section of sheet rock can be done relatively easy, especially if you locate the nails or screws and remove them allowing the section of sheet rock to be removed in one piece thereby allowing you to reused the original piece.
• You may want to consult the manager of the apartment complex and get permission before proceeding with your proposed project.
  As for cable locators, yes there are some that do a fine job, however you must remember that they may only be sensing cables that are energized and may not be locating a cable used for switching a light fixture on.
  • If you are drilling a hole simply for the purpose of installing a wall anchor, then just be sure to drill the hole the depth of the sheet rock, or better yet just us a pick to make the hole.
  • Sheet rock is relatively soft and easy to penetrate which makes it easy to insert molly bolts or other wall anchors for hanging pictures or other wall decorations.

The Following links will assist you with electrical Wiring:

Electrical Panel Circuit Listing

electric panel

• House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
• This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.