Electrical House Wiring 101

In the diagram below a 2 wire nm cable supplies line voltage from the electrical panel to the first receptacle outlet box.

Electrical house wiring 101.

Boxes come in many different sizes and several different shapes. In this article you ll learn how to identify different electrical cable types and their use and how to determine the size of individual wires and their purpose. The black wire line and white neutral connect to the receptacle terminals and another 2 wire nm that travels to the next receptacle. Electrical 101 electrical information for the home and office including switches outlets plugs ballasts troubleshooting light bulbs basic electricity.

Electrical wire and circuit breakers are designed to work in tandem with one another and each must be of a proper corresponding size. Special connectors are used to secure conduit to boxes and to join lengths of conduit together to form long straight runs or bends. For example wiring for 20 amp circuits is 12 gauge which is heavier than the 14 gauge wiring used for 15 amp circuits. An electrical box is a plastic or metal box used to connect wires and install devices such as switches receptacles outlets and fixtures.

Even the most qualified electricians risk their lives if they don t follow basic safety procedure. An electrical box is almost always required for mounting devices and for housing wiring splices. In order to ensure your home wiring is done correctly there are a few basics that you need to be aware of. Review your plan with the inspector and ask.

Wires running inside nm cable bx cable or conduit are sized according to each circuit s amperage. Wire size is given in its gauge number. The key to safe basic house wiring is always keeping in mind that electricity packs a big and deadly punch. No power no trouble.

For example 14 2 gauge electrical wire is rated to a maximum of 15 amps and should not be used with any circuit breaker larger than 15 amps 12 2 gauge wiring is rated to a maximum of 20 amps. The lower the gauge the larger the wire and the more current it can handle. Electrical house wiring mistakes can be deadly so make sure you obtain a permit from your local building department and have an electrical rough in inspection scheduled with a building official when you re finished. The wire and cable aisle at your home center can be a pretty confusing place.

Draw a sketch of your room that shows lighting switch and outlet locations.