Spec PlanH: Electrical Wiring

spec planning: electrical wiring

Spec Plan H: Electrical Wiring

what you need to know —

Identify all electrical wiring needs by room:

— for electrical sockets
— lighting wire for ceiling - wall - floor
— special wiring for appliances

— home sound system
— wiring for smart home devices
— wiring for media - internet - security

— outside wiring
— wiring for outside structures
— wiring for landscape lighting

Start the electrical wiring when the house has been "dried" — windows, doors, and roof installed.

Ceiling and wall lighting may be installed during this phase, or at least designed so that electrical switches and sockets can be installed prior to dry walling.

 

Pay particular attention to "smart home" wiring and IoT (internet of things)

key information about IoT
	what a future smart home may look like

 

For Electrical:

• consider multiple switches for a single light (upstairs and downstairs)
• install dual switches for light and fan
• install smart switches and outlets for home automation [ view plan ]
• order photoelectric cell for the outside and pathways
• install motion detection sensors around the garage and back
• request special wiring for computers, entertainment rooms, alarm systems, ceiling fans, and the like — see our home wired discussion below
• add additional outlets along the kitchen counters and bathroom

 

Visit our Home Improvement showcase:

additional information
	ideas and analysis: electrical wiring
	ideas and analysis: home lighting
	planning: electrical wiring
	best sellers: electrical wiring

 

Check electrical codes:

• check this online building code guide:
  codecheck.com/eleccode.htm
  
• check mechanical codes:
  codecheck.com/mechcode.htm
  
• from howstuffworks.com:
  about electrical wiring

spec planning: electrical wiring

Getting Started

Step 1: develop the plan

• take a completed draft of the plumbing-wiring spec sheet to your architect or planner, who will can customize a remodeling plan or revise an existing plan that meets your specs.
  
• use your spec sheet and floor plan to bid the construction project out to contractors

plumbing/wiring spec sheet

 

Step 2: get required building permits

• It will either be up to you or the contractor to obtain each permit.
  all about permits
• Check with your local jurisdiction regarding site and change permits:
  local government for permit information
• It would be good idea to purchase as reference an illustrated building code book to make sure your project is up to code:
  • building codes illustrated

 

Step 3: find pre-screened contractors and other service providers

We have partnered with HomeAdvisor ™ to search, evaluate and select from pre-screened and rated electrical contractors:

Find Electrical Services
	Electricians		Lighting Design
	Fans		Generators
	Electronics		Home Security
top-rated, pre-screened local contractors
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spec planning: electrical wiring

Related Topics

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How to Choose the Right Electrical Services Provider?

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3 Electrical Repairs a DIYer Can Do and 3 That You Should Always Leave to the Pros

spec planning: electrical wiring

Planning Forms plan and budget electrical wiring need and specs. plumbing/wiring spec sheet spec budgeting worksheet DYI estimates selecting your contractor contractor evaluation sheet working with your contractor managing your contractor Quick scroll to key resources below: home wiring topics pic ideas for home projects what's needed for lighting

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