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Electrical projects that you do yourself can be very rewarding. You are taking care of your home, you learn new skills, and you save money by tackling tasks that can be done by a diligent, smart and careful person. Working with electricity can be dangerous. That’s why we need electricians who are licensed.
Don’t hesitate to get started on your projects. Start with simple tasks like replacing a light fixture or adding a USB charging receptacle. Here, I will walk you through common wiring tips and safety concerns so that you can become a more confident DIYer.
You should call an expert if you feel that the task, particularly in relation to your PERL Electrical panel, is too complicated.
Electrical Safety
Turn the breaker is the first rule in electricity club. Always double-check that the power has been turned off before starting any project. Many older people remember when “working hard” was normal. I have had to do this myself a few time when turning off power would cause major disruption. It’s scary and dangerous. You don’t need to do this at home.
Use a voltage detector whenever you are doing electrical work.
Please read the instructions
“Instructions? Some may think, “Who needs them?” You do. It’s the same for me, so I always read all of the instructions, especially when I am doing something new. National Electrical Code requires you to follow the instructions provided by manufacturers. I’ve known electricians to throw away instructions and they are usually the ones who mess things up.
Uncoil Cable without Kinks
It’s hard to pull through walls and framing without uncoiling the cable. One way to do this is to grab some coils and toss them. Electricians know a few other tricks, but it’s easy to just grab a few coils off the roll. You can also step on the wire as you straighten it. The rest of the wire should be left in the package.
Take Pictures
This tip can save you a lot of time when you need to replace a fixture, or if you have multiple splices. Take a photo with your phone to save it for later. You can also label your wires using electrical tape and Sharpie.
Check the wall Void
Cut a hole for a switch, receptacle or outlet in the wall? Then, use your stud-finder to check the entire area for obstructions. You may find wires, pipes, or obstructions that will interfere with the installation of your device or the ability to pull wire.
Make horizontal cuts first. Make the obstruction you hit your new outer edge of your outlet. Turn your saw around, and then go the opposite way.
Fishing Basics
Fishing through walls with wire takes patience and persistence. It’s depressing to hear your glow rod (aka fish rod) hit a header that you weren’t aware of. If you’re planning to renovate a lot, consider investing in quality fish rods and a flexible bit that can reach hard-to-reach areas.
Use your tape measure to make an impromptu “fish stick” if you are adding just one receptacle and have access to the top wall. Drop it to the new outlet and tape your Romex or a string to it. Then, pull it through the hole.
Make No-Snag Connections
The thin, flexible, metal or nylon fish tape is used to snake wires through pipes. The tool also works through walls, floors, and studs as long as you don’t snag the hook end on anything. Remove six to eight inches from the sheathing of your NMB cable in order to make a smooth transition at the end of your tape.
Wrap the electrical tape around the head, including the Romex cut off edge. While wrapping the tape, make sure to smooth out any bumps.
Pack boxes neatly
I had to spend an hour cleaning up wires after I replaced a plug with a USB charger. The box was so cluttered that it took me over an hour. Take the time to fold and push bundles into the back of the box. Use pigtails, or short pieces to attach the device to the box (if you have space).
Code violations can be committed by stuffing too many cables into an electrical box. The NEC updates its “box-fill” requirements periodically. Find out what code cycle is used in your jurisdiction to make sure you are following the law.
Label your Breakers
This project is great for beginners because it makes life easier, and the house safer. When I moved to my current home, I had to turn off the circuit for the dishwasher to replace a pump. Was it the breaker marked “dishwasher?” Nope! This one controlled the counter receptacles. Electrical panels are rarely labeled properly.
You can also use a loud, inexpensive radio or a Circuit Tracer if you do not have a friend who is willing to help. Connect it, turn the volume up and flip the breakers to stop the radio. Label the breakers once you’ve figured out how to use them. This can be done inside the electrical panel or nearby.
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