January 3, 2012 By ©2007-2012Author - Licensed Electrical Contractor Filed under Planning

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Planning Your Electrical Wiring Project

Planning Your Electrical Wiring Project

 

Careful Planning for Home Electrical Wiring Projects

I wanted electricity in my upstairs area so I ran a 14/2 wire to the upstairs while my downstairs bath was being remodeled and a wall was open.

  • This new wire runs through a switch on the first floor and now I only have power on the second floor when that switch is on, and I can’t leave it on all the time.
  • It’s almost funny except that the wall is now closed up.

 

This electrical question came from: Dave, a Handyman from Hollidaysburg, Pennsylvania.

See more about Home Wiring for Pennsylvania

Dave’s Reply:

Thanks for your electrical question Dave.

Planning and Extending Electrical Wiring

  • This is a lesson about planning, but you already know that because you are the subject of the lesson. So lets see what your options are.
  • The good thing is that there is obviously a neutral and a hot wire present in the switch box, the only problem is that the power is run through the switch, so the solution would be to connect to the power source before the switch. What is unknown here is what you intend to do with this extended circuit that is now feeding the upstairs area, so you need to plan out how the circuit will be used, and realize that the amount of power will be limited because it is a branch off of an existing circuit downs stairs which is being used for other devices.
  • The suggested method is to plan out what you intend to do with the circuit and submit it to the building department so they can approve your project and inspect the work.
  • You also have the option of having a qualified electrical contractor take care of all of this for you as well.

  • Electrical Tip – Electrical Project Planning

  • Always plan your project in advance, and determine what devices will be connected to the proposed circuit, then size the circuit appropriately, obtain the necessary permits and inspections.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical wiring project:

electrical-switches
Wiring a Light Switch – Diagram 1

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.

This link is helpful as a Handyman
Do-It-Yourself Electrical


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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