Gordon JamesAre you looking to plan the electrical outlets in your new home? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Exploring this helpful guide to planning electrical outlets in your new home will help you with some basic solutions for finding your perfect placement.
Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Create a Floor Plan and Get to Know Your Future Home
The only way to find the best placement for outlets is to first draw up a floor plan and get to know your home. Next, measure where you wish to place the outlet (such as living room or bedroom) and then use an outlet calculator online.
Estimate the Number of Outlets
Upon identifying where to install the outlet, use an online outlet calculator such as this one to get a rough estimation of the number of outlets. Such a calculator can also calculate how many straight runs (such as 2-wire) and adapters it will take to reach all your outlets.
Choose Your Wiring
You’ll want to choose an electrical system which will suit your needs. For example, this guide recommends a “2-wire system” because it’s cost-efficient and allows you to connect a single device, such as your coffee maker or coffeemaker. However, if you’re planning to use other electrical devices such as TVs, lamps, or computers, you may want to consider a “3-wire system,” as this will allow you to connect multiple devices.
Lay Electrical Conduit
Once your outlet locations are determined, and the number of outlets is estimated, it’s time to lay down the electrical conduit. This guide recommends using an electrical conduit, normally sized at 5/8″, but you may want to select a lighter, thinner type if there is enough space in your outlets. By choosing a thin profile, you also get the advantage of being able to run the conduit vertically through your roof or attic.
Run the Conduit
To fit under all those electrical outlets, you’ll need to stretch out the electrical outlet wires into an insulated wire “conduit.” The ends of this wire should be attached via female connectors and a termination box. Then, to run your wire, you can have it simply dangle in the space between the joists.
Connect Up the Electrical Outlets
Once you’ve run down your wire to each room in your home, it’s time to connect the wires to your electrical outlets.
One of the most important things to remember during this process is that you need to connect each colored wire with its corresponding color. That way, you can identify which colored wire goes with which electric socket.
Wire Each Electrical Outlet
Once you’ve selected the right colored wire, it’s time to wire each electrical outlet. Ensure your power source is off and the wires are not live. During this step, you should also wear the proper protective gear, such as rubber gloves and a mask.
Punch out an appropriately sized hole in the drywall, insert the wire through the hole, and then attach it to a nearby stud or joist.
Turn Your Power Source On
It’s time to turn your power source back on. Once there is reliable power, plug in your device to test if it works. If it does, everything should be fine.
If something is wrong, you’ll have to make a correction and try again. Remember, this is a process of trial and error, and you may have to make multiple attempts before finally getting it right.
The Bottom Line
Remember, the only way to ensure electrical outlets are installed correctly is by doing it yourself. By following this guide, you’ll be able to plan electrical outlets in your new home or renovation project without hiring a professional electrician.
The bottom line is that you need to take the time and plan your outlet locations to maximize usability, prevent future issues, and save money by doing it yourself. Happy home-building!
Gordon James
