how does electrical wiring in a house work

Wiring a house is an intimidating task for even the most experienced DIYer. After all, it's your home, and if something goes wrong, you could be dealing with a major disaster. But don't worry--it's not as complicated or time-consuming as it may seem. Here's a quick look at how electrical wiring in a house works.

Electricity flows through a house in a single path. In most homes, the majority of the wiring is made up of 14-gauge or 12-gauge copper wires, and these run from the breaker box to power outlets, switches, and lights. The circuit breakers switch off the electricity if the current becomes too much and causes the wire to draw too much amperage from the circuit. Circuit breakers also protect against power surges.

The switches, outlets, and fixtures are all connected to the main power supply by separate wires, which connect to the breaker box. Each switch and outlet needs three wires: a hot wire, a neutral wire, and a ground wire. The hot wire carries the electricity to the appliance, the neutral wire sends the electricity back to the load center, and the ground wire protects the appliance from electrical shocks. To ensure the safety of your home and its occupants, an electrician usually inspects the wiring before connecting it to the main power supply.

In addition to providing power to the home, electrical wiring also helps to protect it from water damage. Electrical cables are designed to run through water-resistant walls, ceilings, and floors, so they won't be damaged by moisture or heat. It is also important to make sure that all of the wiring and connections are properly insulated to prevent sparking and fires.

Overall, electrical wiring in a house is a complex and challenging task, but one that can be completed successfully with the right knowledge and tools. With a bit of patience and careful planning, you can safely wire your own home and save money in the process.

How Electricity Works Basics For Homeowners