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Rrsource: Safe elecrtric wiring
How to wire devices, and how electric devices work/pdf
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Basic
house wiring Resources Rrsource: Safe elecrtric wiring How to wire devices, and how electric devices work/pdf |
| Use only 600 volt wire. Lamp cord, extension cords are not rated 600 volt. Use copper wire only. Aluminum wire is fire risk and should be avoided or installed by professional. 30 amp breaker use 10 gauge / 120-240 volt 30 amp outlet can be installed on 30 amp breaker only/ use 10 gauge wire ... cannot be connected to 15-20-40 amp breaker.  Orange/ #10 gauge wire, with ground ... 30 amp capacity. Safe maximum: 30 x 80% = 24 amps. Buy: 10-2 gauge/ 30 amp 10-3/ 30 amp Southwire electric tools |
Yellow
12 gauge 20 amp 120 volt 20 amp outlet can be installed on 20 amp breaker, but not 15 amp breaker/ use 12 ga wire. ... cannot be connected to 30-40 amp breaker. 1  Yellow/ #12 gauge wire, with ground ... 20 amp capacity. Safe maximum 16 amps. Buy: 12-2 gauge/ 20 amp 12-3/ 20 amp NMB is house wiring UF is underground Rolls of stranded wire HOOK UP Wires |
White
14 gauge 15 amp 120 volt 15 amp outlet, AFCI, GFCI, timer, switch etc can be installed on 15 or 20 amp breaker. Never connect 15 gauge wire to 20-30-40 amp breaker.  White/ #14 gauge wire, with ground ... 15 amp capacity. Safe maximum 12 amps. Buy: 14-2 gauge/ 15 amp 14-3/ 15 amp NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
| 50-60
amp breaker use 6 gauge / 240 volt 50 outlet can be installed on 50 amp breaker only  Buy: 6-2 wire Southwire electric tools NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
40-50
amp breaker use 8 gauge / 240 volt 40 amp outlet can be installed on 40 or 50 amp breaker only  Buy: 8-2 wire Southwire electric tools NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
  Copper ground wire. Every device, load, metal enclosure etc must be grounded. Ground wire must be continuous throughout installation, never switched on-off, never used as a Neutral wire. Generally ... use same size as other wire in circuit Buy: 12 gauge copper ground wire Ground wire Green ground wire Ground pigtails Ground rods/ ground clamps at Amazon |
 Non metallic flexible cables must carry ground wire, but do not have hazard of short circuit causing injury from shock. Armored steel cable can be used as a grounded connection, and will protect wires from damage. Metal can be energized from an insulation failure. All conduit ...metal, plastic ... flexible and rigid ... must be attached to structure, and attached to enclosures, boxes. Movement, damage and deterioration are major cause of electrical failure. Buy: Non-metallic flexible conduit Power whip Armored cable Southwire armored cable cutter Pull boxes |
 Electrical tools must be insulated. Always best to disconnect power, but insulation failure, lack of proper grounding, grounded neutral, lack of GFCI, out-of-code wiring, generator operating without transfer switch, and other problems still pose a risk to anyone working on electric power ... even when breaker is off. Buy: Electrician tools kits KLEIN TOOLS Tools kits IRWIN tools KNIPEX Telephone cable knife Low Voltage Mounting Bracket for Telephone |
Push-on wire connectors in place of twist-on connectorsBuy:Push on wire connectors Amazon Red 3P connector for 10-14 gauge wire Lever connectors for stranded wire at Amazon HOOK UP Wires |
 Protect wiring from damage Use nipper instead of pliers or screwdriver for removing staples (and nails). Do not damage cable or wires inside cable. -Code says: Cable SHALL BE secured without damage to the outer covering. NEC sec. 336-15 Buy End cutting nippers at Amazon |
  Electrically insulated tools When removing insulation from wire, do NOT score or put cuts on surface of copper wire. Doing so increases resistance and heat on wire and creates possible weak point. Buy tools: KLEIN TOOLS Wire strippers at Amazon Electric Wire Stripping Machine Linesman pliers Utility knife at Amazon |
 Multimeters Voltage is tested across two separate wires. Ohms or resistance is tested across both ends of same wire. Amperage is tested along one or two points on same wire. Buy: Analog multimeter Multimeters at Amazon Klein multimeter Electric testers at Amazon Clampmeter for testing amp flow on line |
| NEC (National electric code) 120
volt outlets including GFCI
plugs, outlets,, receptacles etc 30 amp outlet can be
installed on 30 amp breaker only
20 amp outlet can be installed on 20-30+ amp breaker, but not 15 amp breaker 15 amp outlet can be installed on 15-20-30+ amp breaker Wire size must match breaker rating, and device terminals rated for wire size NEC (National electric code) 240 volt outlets 50 amp outlet can be
installed on 50 amp breaker only
40 amp outlet can be installed on 40 or 50 amp only 30 amp outlet can be installed on 30 amp breaker only 20 amp outlet can be installed on 20-30 amp breaker, not 15 amp breaker 15 amp outlet can be installed on 15-20-30 amp breaker Wire size must match breaker rating, and outlet terminals rated for wire size |
 Buy: NEC books Dewalt plumbing/ electrical codes Basic electric book National electric code guide/ illustrated |
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 GFCI circuit breaker A GFCI circuit breaker will protect all boxes on circuit. Circuit must be grounded. Ground wire must be continuous and connected to each piece of equipment. White wire on circuit breaker must be connected to Neutral busbar inside the breaker panel. Buy GFCI circuit breakers |
Push down 1" wide Push down breaker Plug-in breaker Buy single-pole: Choose from 15 to 60 amp Eaton CL series Siemens 15-60 amp Single-pole tandem breaker Tandem breakers |
Push down 2" wide Push down breaker Plug-in breakers Buy double-pole: Choose from 15 to 125 amp Choose from 15 amp to 200 amp Eaton CL series circuit breaker Siemens circuit breaker Double pole GFCI |
 Larger imageSingle-phase circuit breaker box found in residential installation Single phase means 2 wires are needed to complete each circuit. Contrast single-phase with commercial 3 phase where 3 wires are needed to complete each circuit. -Electricity arrives in the breaker box after passing through the meter box, and meter. -The breaker box has 4 busbars: 2 Hot busbars, 1 Neutral busbar and 1 Ground busbar that is bonded (connected to) Neutral busbar. Each Hot busbar carries 120 volt electricity that is out of phase... like the pedals on a bike, each phase in either rising or falling but always opposite the other pedal. -When double breaker is installed over two 120 volt out-of-phase busbars, there is 240 volt potential across the 2 Hot wires. -When a single-pole breaker is installed over a busbar, there is 120 volt potential across the Hot wire and the Neutral. -Each 120 volt circuit requires a Hot and Neutral wire. Each 240 volt circuit requires 2 out-of-phase Hot wires but does not require a Neutral. -All 120 volt and 240 volt circuits require ground wire. The ground busbar is bonded to the Neutral busbar, and the Ground busbar is connected to a ground wire that goes to the ground rod driven into the soil outside the house. Resources: Electricity: Generator to power pole Power pole to residential breaker box Power pole to commercial breaker box How to wire commercial 3-phase Difference between single-phase and 3-phase |
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Typical 120 volt circuit -Illustration shows typical 120 volt single-phase circuit found in homes and business, passing through walls and ceilings to reach each box. Maximum 12 boxes per circuit. By code, a box cannot have Hot wire supplied from another breaker. |
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Typical
120
volt circuit -Illustration shows wiring for switches and outlets, including 3-way switches, in a typical 120 volt single-phase circuit with max 12 boxes. -The Neutral connects to each outlet and light, but does not connect to switch, unless it is a combination device with outlet or pilot light. Switches turn the Hot wire on and off. It is against code to turn off the Neutral instead of Hot. The Hot wire is connected to each switch and each outlet, and runs to each light. Ground wire runs continuously and connects to all devices and metal boxes in the circuit. Plastic boxes contain ground wire but ground wire does not need to be bonded to the box. Resources: Three phase electric |
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120 and 240 volt circuits, plus
dedicated circuits -Basic household wiring supplies Hot and Neutral to 120 volt circuits that serve lights, plugs and appliances. -Some appliances, such as microwave and gas water heaters with flue damper or power vent, are required to have dedicated breaker where only 1 item is served by the circuit. -Microwaves are on dedicated circuit because they draw 12-15 amps. -The purpose putting gas water heater on dedicated circuit is to prevent surges and anomalies, caused by other appliances or motors, from affecting operation of gas control valve. -All 240 volt appliances, such as water heater, subpanel, clothes dryer, oven, HVAC etc have two Hot wires and are required to have dedicated double-pole breaker. Buy: Emerson microwaves Resources: How to wire subpanel How to wire Tankless water heater Figure volts amps watts |
 Wire
connections/ -Use clean wires ... sand off any corrosion, cut back any melted or burned end. Do NOT use damaged wire. -Always tighten screws and connectors very tight against wire. -Make hook shape with needle nose pliers when attaching wire to screw terminal.  -Never
use stranded wire under screw terminal. Instead crimp on a terminal.-Straighten wires for lug connection -Twist wires together so there are no gaps or looseness, and the cover completely with wire connector. Rrsource: Safe elecrtric wiring |
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 Larger imageDedicated circuit Microwave oven must be on a dedicated circuit One breaker supplies power to outlet where microwave plugs in. This is required by code because microwave pulls so many amps. Other 120 volt circuit that might require dedicated circuit include window air conditioer, baseboard heater, bathroom heater, whole house vent fan. All 240 volt appliances are on dedicated circuit. The home air conditioner, clothes dryer, water well pump, subpanels, arc welder, water heater are each on a separate circuit. Other appliances might include 240 volt window air conditioner. |
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120 volt controls 240 volt water
heater 240 volt circuits can be controlled by 120V using a contactor. This lets you install timer or home automation device to any 240 volt circuit. Resources: How to wire Zwave contactor Project step-by-step How to replace circuit breaker Choose correct breaker and wire size How to add subpanel Override air conditioner with timer |
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| Wire size | ||
| Use only 600 volt wire. Lamp cord, extension cords are not rated 600 volt. Use copper wire only. Aluminum wire is fire risk and should be avoided or installed by professional. 30 amp breaker use 10 gauge / Buy: 10-2 gauge/ 30 amp 10-3/ 30 amp Southwire electric tools |
Yellow
12 gauge 20 amp Yellow/ #12 gauge wire for 20 amp with ground Buy: 12-2 gauge/ 20 amp 12-3/ 20 amp NMB is house wiring UF is underground Rolls of stranded wire |
White
14 gauge 15 amp White/ #14 gauge wire for 15 amp with ground Buy: 14-2 gauge/ 15 amp 14-3/ 15 amp NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
 Buy: Armored cable |
 Southwire armored cable cutter Buy: Rolls of stranded wire |
Stranded wire  Buy: Rolls of stranded wire |
| 50-60
amp breaker use 6 gauge / Buy: 6-2 wire Southwire electric tools NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
40-50
amp breaker use 8 gauge / Buy: 8-2 wire Southwire electric tools NMB is house wiring UF is underground |
Copper ground wire Use same size as other wire in circuit Buy: 12 gauge copper ground wire Ground wire Green ground wire Ground pigtails Ground rods/ ground clamps at Amazon |
Buy End cutting nippers at Amazon |
When removing insulation from wire, do NOT score or put cuts on surface of copper wire. Doing so increases resistances on wire and creates weak point. Buy tools: Wire strippers at Amazon Linesman pliers Utility knife at Amazon |
Buy: Multimeter Electrical testers |
 Household NM-B Wires are color-coded so inspectors/ electricians can easily identify which wire is used during construction |
Match wire size and breaker amp
rating If your home was wired by professional electrician who pulled permits, then circuit breaker and wire size will match. If manufactured home or travel trailer has not been altered by homeowner then breaker and wire size will match. If breaker is oversized for wire... fire danger Breaker can let too much electricity travel through the wire. Wire can overheat and cause fire. Call electrician if you suspect wiring is not correct, Absolute electrocution danger when removing cover off main panel. More information below. Main breaker terminals are still Hot when main breaker is turned off. By code, all wire and cable used for permanent installation in homes and businesses are rated 600 volt. This does not include extension cords that cannot be used for permanent wiring and have strictly limited applications. The reason: 600 volts is the maximum supply voltage that distribution transformers can supply to business, and then 600 volts is only supplied to commercial installations when that specific service is required. Homes never receive 600 volt service, and there are no household devices or appliances made for such voltage. Buy: Southwire at Amazon Resource: How to replace circuit breaker |
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Match breaker to voltage that
shows on appliance label 3-phase breakers are used for commercial service panels Code says: Use connected/ double-pole breaker Against code: Use 2 single breakers to supply 240 volt, unless the switches are connected and rated for same amps If double breaker is rated for 30 amp, then BOTH sides of the breaker are each 30 amp (not 15 amp each) Power is doubled with 240 volt vs 120 volt, amps are not halved Resource: How to replace circuit breaker 3-phase wiring Are both sides of 30 amp double breaker 30 amp? |
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Circuit breaker and wire size
must match Chart on left shows that 30 amp breaker matches 10 gauge copper wire. Do not use aluminum wire. Copper wire is safe. All wire expands when electricity travels through wire. Aluminum wire expands more than copper wire. Expansion causes connection points to come loose resulting in fire hazard. Special compression fittings and CO-AL rated devices must be used with aluminum wire. Image on left shows rating for lengths up to 100' feet for household NM-B and DU-F Resources: Larger image with wire types, temperature, long length Maximum wattage for household NM-B and DU-F wires Wire diameter, weight, resistance |
 Cords
should not be warm if they are used full-timeIf you are using extension cord as full time source of electricity for portable pump, fan, or window air conditioner. the cord should NOT be warm or hot If occasionally-used toaster oven cord gets warm when used, then that is normal If you operate the appliance full time, then upgrade to larger cord or professional appliance Buy 12 gauge extension cord ''Flexible cords and cables may not be used: a. As a substitute for the fixed wiring of the structure; b. Where run through holes in walls, ceilings, or floors; c. Where run through doorways, windows, or similar openings; d. Where attached to building surfaces; or e. Where concealed behind building walls, ceilings, or floors." Flexible cord splices, repair and connections: "Flexible cords shall be used only in continuous lengths without splice or tap. No. 12 or larger, may be repaired if spliced so that the splice retains insulation, outer sheath properties, and usage characteristics. Flexible cords shall be connected to devices and fittings so that strain relief is provided which will prevent pull from being directly transmitted to joints or terminal screws." In other words, the cord must be connected or held in place by a clamp or other means so it cannot be pulled loose from terminal screws. |
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Outlets
Volt
and amp rating for switches
and
outlets is printed on the device:It is against code to connect 20 amp switch to 15 amp breaker (white 14 gauge wire) ,,, but ok to connect 15 amp switch to 20 amp breaker (yellow 12 gauge wire) Do NOT use 15 amp switch for 20 or 30 amp load. Residential switches and outlets are rated for 15, 20 and 30 amp. Single-pole switches have 2 screws and ground screw. 3- way has 3 screws and ground screw. 4-way has 4 screws and ground screw. 4 pole switches have 4 screws but can be differentiated from 4-way by 120-277V rating on 4-pole, and 120V rating on 4-way. |
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'Old school' wiring works
correctly, but is no longer code because white wire carries power. Single pole - No Neutral Power at light fixture in ceiling All wiring must be inside a box with cover How to wire switches with no neutral wire Power enters at light fixture There are no white wires covered with wire nut and pushed to back of box. Wire colors can vary |
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Correct wiring: every switch box
has Neutral Single pole - Neutral in box How to wire switch with neutral wires present inside switch box Single-pole is when 1 switch control light(s) single-pole switch has 2 dark screws or 2 brass screws, and 1 ground screw Neutral wires are never connected to switch. Location of neutral wire affects switch wiring, because wire color can change If neutrals are present inside box, then they will be the white wires that are twisted together, covered with wire nut and pushed to back of box. Resources: Steps for replacing typical switch How to troubleshoot loose wire, ground fault, or short |
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Single
pole - Neutral - in junction box Any box can be a junction box... with wires that go to other boxes How to wire switch inside junction box, with neutral wires Neutral is never connected to switch. Neutral wire is never connected to switch Outlet boxes always have neutral wire Switch boxes and ceiling boxes can have neutral, or they can be without neutral wire. Resource: How to wire switches |
| Outlets Volt and amp rating for switches
and
outlets is printed on the device:
It is against code to connect 20 amp outlet to 15 amp breaker (white 14 gauge wire) ,,, but ok to connect 15 amp outlet to 20 amp breaker (yellow 12 gauge wire) Residential outlets are rated for 15 and 20 amp, with both 120V and 240V ratings. How electric devices work .pdf Residential 30-50 amp outlets are larger, and used for dryers and range etc. How to wire 240V outlets |
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Outlets
are wired in parallel Electrical switches, timers, outlets, lights etc are never wired in series. Wiring in series will not work. Wiring must be in parallel as illustrated on this page. Wiring in series causes voltage drop across the line. Parallel wiring ensures that voltage remains the same across entire circuit. Notice color code on screws. Black Hot connects to Brass screw (often black color since modern screws are frequently made of steel instead of brass). Neutral universally connects to silver screw. Both Neutral screws are bonded together so 1 connection point is all that's needed. Brass screws are also bonded together, but often they are connected with a breaker-away fin that can be removed to accomplish various wiring options not shown on this page. Outlet shown is for 120 volt ONLY. DO not use two-vertical-slot outlet for 240 volt. Outlets for 240 volt have different blade configuration. How to wire 240 volt straight blade outlet The Green Ground screw is always on the Neutral side of outlet. Outlets can be rotated either way, with Neutral or Hot on left or right. This illustration shows Hot right, Neutral left. Illustration above shows the same. |
 NEC (National electric code) 120 volt 15 amp devices including GFCI, timers, switches, plugs 30 amp outlet can be installed on 15-20-30 amp breaker, not 40-50-60+ breaker 20 amp outlet can be installed on 15-20 amp breaker, but not 30+ breaker 15 amp outlet can only be installed on 15 amp breaker NEC (National electric code) 240 volt 15 amp outlets 50 amp outlet can be installed on 20-30-40-50 amp breaker, not 50+ amp breaker 30 amp outlet can be installed on 20-30 amp breaker, not 40-50-60+ breaker 20 amp outlet can be installed on 15-20 amp breaker, not 30-50-60+ breaker 15 amp outlet can only be installed on 15 amp breaker |
120
volt outlets are different than 240 volt outlets 15 amp are different than 20 amp. Select correct design for voltage and amperage. DO NOT connect wrong outlet to voltage, or risk burning out electrical load. For example, plugging 120 volt drill into 240 volt plug: the drill will run very fast for a moment or two and then smoke comes out and drill motor is damaged beyond repair. Connecting electronic timer to wrong voltage will destroy timer. Resources: How to wire 240 volt straight blade outlet Figure volts amps watts Color code for wire/ breaker size |
 Larger image Resources: Select correct wire and breaker Figure volts watts and amps |
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Single-phase 120-240 volt
twist-lock outlet or connector is
marked X-Y-W-G or X-Y-G 120V and 240V requires two wires to complete circuit, and ground wire for safety. 120V requires 1 hot and 1 neutral. 240V requires 2 hots. Neutral is not needed for 240volt electric circuit, but is sometimes included on electrical device, depending on end-user application. Resources: See inside main box Figure volts amps watts Select correct wire and breaker Electrical formulas Z is used for 3-phase and not shown here. Commercial 3-phase outlet is marked X-Y-Z-G or X-Y-Z-W-G Resource: How to wire 3-phase |
| Other wiring resources | ||
| How to wire surge protection How to wire subpanel How to wire 240 volt outlets How to wire GFCI and AFCI How to wire Combo switches How to wire Tankless water heater How to wire under counter water heater |
-Basis Safety Grounding Surge |
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 Surge Protection is a consumable product that absorbs irregular voltage and protects circuits from damage. Resources: How to wire surge protection |
 Subpanels are used to expand electric service by adding more breaker spaces Resources: How to wire subpanel |
 240 volt outlets are used for window air conditioner, RV hook-ups, electric car, dryer, range welder etc Resources: How to wire 240 volt outlets How to wire twist lock devices |
  GFCI breakers and outlets trips faster than ordinary circuit breaker to protect from shock caused by short circuit. AFCI does the same plus trips when a spark is detected. Install GFCI in bathrooms, kitechen, laundry room, and on all outdoor plugs. Resources: How to wire GFCI and AFCI |
 Under counter water heaters are used to provide hot water to smaller consumption areas or to supplement or replace main water heater. Resources: How to wire under counter water heater |
 Electric Tankless water heaters are used as main water heater, or as supplement to supply one area. Resources: How to wire Tankless water heater |
 Switch-outlet combos require a Neutral wire and are often used to replace ordinary outlet or switch. Resources: How to wire Combo switches How to replace outlet with combo switch |
 Pilot light switches and outlets are used to indicate when a circuit is ON or when a device has power. Resources: How to wire pilot light switch |
 Switches are connected to Hot wires only. There are 4 basic types of switches: single-pole, 3-way, 4-way, and double-pole, with varieties and speciality switches Resources: How to wire switches How to add a switch How to add a 3-way switch How to wire safety switches How to wire occupancy switch How to wire transfer switch How to wire door switch Control motor with two switches |
| Terminology for wiring Load = light bulb, motor, fan, heater, pump; Total load = add up wattage on all Loads. Resistive Load: incandescent light bulb, heating element have uniform voltage and amp draw; Inductive load: motor, pump etc. Inductive loads pull many amps during start up. Load rating... light bulb shows wattage, label on water heater shows volts-watts, timer labels show rating for inductive or resistive etc Figure volts amps watts Volts x amps = watts Water heater formulas .pdf Hot wire = wire or wires that carry voltage potential and would shock you if breaker was on Image residential breaker box Neutral wire = by code, a white wire used for 120V and 277V circuits to complete circuit, and carries no voltage Ground wire = green or bare copper wire that connects to ground busbar in breaker box Why ground is needed 208 and 240 volt single-phase circuits have 2 Hot wires. (US electric) Image residential breaker box Some countries have 230-240Volt circuits with 1 Hot and 1 Neutral (instead of 2 Hot wires). What is 208 volt 120 and 277 volt circuits have 1 Hot and 1 Neutral / Usually 277volt is found in commercial applications (US) What is 277 volt Standard voltages in US and Americas include 12V 24V 120V 208V 240V 277V 480V 600V etc found in various applications Voltages around the world vary depending on country. Standard voltages make it possible to mass produce wires, breakers, appliances etc. 60Hz or 60 cycle = number of times AC generator rotates each second. Americas use 60 Hz power, while other countries use 50Hz. Read more DC direct current is generated by solar panels and batteries. Large arc when switching high voltage DC is fire hazard. Device must show DC rating. Read about DC vrs AC AC alternating current produced by power plant, windmill, or portable generator. More Single-phase = residential electrical systems are single phase AC, requiring 2 wires to complete circuit More Three-phase = commercial wiring requiring 3 Hot wires to complete circuit More Wire gauge = diameter of wire. The wire size and load rating and breaker must match Select wire and breaker Breaker: circuit breaker is overcurrent protection that will trip when amp draw from Load or short circuit overheats wire. Turn breaker fully off and then fully on. Jumper = short wire used to connect 2 electrical points together. |
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| How
to find ground fault in household electric circuit A ground fault is when Hot electricity reaches the ground wire or the earth, causing breaker or GFCI to trip. Symptoms include tripped GFCI that will not reset. In this case, the GFCI device might be bad. But if the GFCI is recording a fault, then troubleshooting is required to find the loose wire, bad connection, defective electrical device, melted motor winding etc. The GFCI will trip with the slightest fault current, and reacts much more quickly that circuit breaker. The GFCI reacts to a difference in current between wires, while a circuit breaker reacts to heat build-up on the Hot wire. As a consequence, circuit breakers are slow acting, and often will not trip with a slight trickle of power to ground. If the circuit is protected by AFCI instead of GFCI, then the circuit has additional layer of protection. AFCI will trip if an 'arc' is detected. The arc does not have to reach ground wire, it can merely be a loose Hot or Neutral located on a switch screw, outlet, fan motor etc. Resources How to wire GFCI and AFCI devices Difference between surge protector and ground If circuit does not have GFCI or AFCI, then the short circuit must reach the ground wire and go to earth before the breaker will trip. This emphasizes the need for proper ground wire. Breakers trip for other reasons, such as bad breaker or undersized wire for the load. The breaker trips when heat on the Hot wire exceeds breaker rating. What happens is the fault current pushes electrons down the ground wire out to the ground rod and into earth. The difference in electrical potential between charged electrons on the wire and electrons in the earth creates a strong attraction. Electrons pour down the ground wire uncontrollably trying to equalize the difference in charge between wire and earth. The number of electrons quickly exceed the rating of the wire, the wire gets hot, and breaker responds to the heat by tripping. Understanding the wires There are a maximum 12 boxes per circuit. Dedicated circuits for 240 volt appliances, and 120 volt microwaves, have 1 connection and not 12. How the wire is routed in the circuit. The 14-2 or 12-2 cable leaves breaker box and travels to the first junction box. For example a ceiling box in the nearest room is normally the first junction box. From the ceiling junction box, the cable splits off, and travels to each of the other boxes in the circuit. Any box can be a junction box where the circuit splits and carries power to another box. So a junction box can have several cables. For example, if the first junction box is bedroom ceiling box, there will be cables that travel to other boxes, and one cable might travel to next bedroom ceiling box. And so the next bedroom also has a ceiling junction box. But each box in the circuit will have only 1 cable that connects back to breaker box. When the cable arrives inside a duplex outlet box for example, another wire will leave the outlet box and travel to the next outlet box, and then travel to next outlet box or next switch box, until the last box is reached. So each box will have 1 or more cables, and the last box will have just 1 cable. However, each box has only 1 hot wire, and 1 neutral, and 1 ground that connect back to breaker box. Finding the fault First step is to isolate exactly what boxes are on the circuit. 1) Unplug all lamps, clocks, appliances, cords, clocks etc on the affected circuit. Try to reset the breaker or GFCI. If power is restored, then one of the plugged-in devices is suspect. Wait for a while to see if power continues uninterruped. Reconnect each device one by one to eliminate the good ones. If a lamp is causing the problem, then plug a good lamp into same outlet and see if problem comes back. If problem resumes with good lamp is plugged in, then turn off power and inspect wiring on outlet, and or replace outlet. Quick connection points on back of outlet fail frequently with cheap electrical devices. 2) If problem does not appear to be a plugged-in device, the switches are next suspect. Turn off all ceiling fans, lights, and switches. See if GFCI or breaker resets. If power resumes, then turn each switch back on one by one. If ceiling fan causes problem, remove, inspect, replace switch and see if problem is solved before replacing ceiling fan. If problem is inside the wiring somewhere: 3) Select one of the outlet boxes with more than one cable. Identify which cable has the Hot and Neutral. Disconnect the other cable so boxes farther from breaker are disconnected from the circuit. Turn power ON, and see if fault is still present. If fault is still present, then choose another live box that has two or more cables that is closer to breaker box, and repeat test. Process of elimination will narrow the search. Sometimes it is easier to replace all the switches, outlets and wire connectors in a room, but that is no guarantee the problem will be solved. Other causes can be rodent damage to wire, nail in wires, cable staple in wire, or some other wire damage. Resources Troubleshoot-household-electricity.html |
| Install wiring | |
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Keep wires in center of
2x4s and out of way from any nails. When remodeling, never assume location of existing wires. Use a stud finder to see inside the wall, or cut out small piece of sheetrock to view conditions before nailing. If wire has nail damage, the full length of wire must be replaced from box to box. Concealing a box inside wall is not code. |
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Switch
boxes are 50" from
floor Outlet boxes are 16" from floor |
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Run
wire down center of
2x4 to avoid nails Apply cable staples to secure wire to 2x4 Set switch or outlet box out from 2x4 to match thickness or drywall Nail staple down snug against wire. Make sure the staple does not cut into the wire. The wire should not be able to move after staple is applied. Staple is not nailed down hard... just snug. Keep wire in middle of 2x4 wall. Staple wire every 3 feet or so. |
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Protect
electric wires
from nails Apply metal plates over places where wire passes through 2x4 Drill hole through middle of 2x4 |
 If
another wire already drops through top plate where you want your
wire, see if your wire will push through same hole. If you have to drill, move over several inches from other wires so drill won't contact wires. When drilling through top plate 3 things may occur: 1.) You may hit a nail > drill another hole 2.) You may hit top of upright 2x4 > drill another hole 3.) You may drill into the wrong cavity > that's why you drill through top plate before cutting hole in sheetrock Tip: after drilling hole in top plate - and - before cutting hole in sheetrock, drop your wire into wall and have helper rattle it around to make sure you're in the right spot. Put timer at eye-level so it's easy to program. |
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 Cut-away view of
residential wall1) Drop wire through top plate. 2) Have helper rattle wire inside wall 3) Noise from rattling wire will identify where to cut hole for box 4) Try to identify mid-way between studs so blade will not cut existing wires. 5) Existing wires will be stapled onto 2x4's Do not cut wire accidently Buy Tools DEWALT Black and Decker Stanley SKIL Makita Porter-Cable Bosch |
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 Instructions:
Drop wire from attic before cutting hole for box. Once wire is dropped down inside wall, have helper rattle wire around. Noise from wire will confirm location to cut hole. Helper pulls wire up out of way so saw will not cut wire. Cut 2-1/4" x 3-3/4" hole in sheetrock using knife or saw Reach in and find electric wire inside wall Pull electric wire through hole Feed wire into box Set box into hole Turn screws so pop-up fin tightens against inside of sheetrock Install switch. Resource How to install old work box |
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| Wire connections | |
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 How to test for Hot and Neutral wire: Turn power off Separate all wires for testing except ground wires. Turn power on. Tape tester leads to wood sticks for safety. Keep hands away from power. Test each wire to bare ground wire. Tester lights up on Hot wire. Hot wire should be black (except 3-way switches) Test Hot wire to all other wires except ground Tester lights up on Neutral wire. Buy: Voltage neon testers at Amazon Electric testers at Amazon |
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Outlet
polarity on outlets Hot and Neutral must be correct on outlet Hot wire connects to brass-colored screw Neutral wire connects to silver-colored screw Ground wire connects to green screw Resources: How to add a switch How to add outlet |
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Use end cutting pliers
to remove staple & nails Good tool for electric work and construction  Buy: Crescent-brand end cutting nipper at Amazon End cutting nippers at Amazon |
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Stripping wire Carefully slice through coating on wire Cut down middle of cable over the ground wire Use sharp blade  Buy: Utility knife at Amazon Wire stripper Terminal crimp tool When stripping, do not score or make a cut on the copper wire surface. Cuts on copper wire can increase resistance and heat on wire. Buy: Wire strippers at Amazon Resources: Color code for wire |
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Twisting wire Use Linesman pliers Buy tools: Wire strippers at Amazon Linesman pliers Utility knife at Amazon End cutting nippers at Amazon Resources: How to twist wire |
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Wire connectors Solid copper wires do not need to be twisted together, but I recommend twisting wire to ensure strong permanent connection. If wires are twisted, then make sure the two wires are twisted very tight. To install connector, turn wire connector very tight against copper When finished, ask two questions: Does connector cover past the copper wire? Yes Is connector tight enough that it will never fall off? Yes Will the wires pull out of connector? No Answer 'yes' to first two questions, and no to last question, you have right connector, and connection is secure.  
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 Cut
stranded wire longer than solid copper, then wrap
stranded around copper before applying wire connector.Do not reuse old connectors Buy: Connector assortment at Amazon Connector assortment at Amazon Resource How to select and install twist-on wire connectors |
maximum 2 wires under screw plate Same gauge wire under screw plate |
Push
on wire connectors Buy: Push on wire connectors at Amazon Red 3P connector (shown) for 10-14 gauge wire Resource Electric safety when wiring timer |
 Terminals Buy: Terminal kit Blue for 16-14 wire Yellow for 12-10 wire Read about terminals Resource: How to install terminals |
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| Circuit breakers and fuses | |
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Circuit breakers Water heater is tripping breaker How to replace circuit breaker How to wire gfci Can AC breaker be used for DC breaker How to reset circuit breaker Not enough space for circuit breakers Circuit breakers How to install subpanel Why you need ground wire Match breaker and wire size How to wire subpanel See inside breaker box How to wire safety switch How to wire whole house surge protector |
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Water heater blowing breaker Move wires to different same-size breaker and see if problem continues Resources: Water-heater-is-blowing-breaker Stress test breaker panel How to replace circuit breaker Color code for wire |
 Safety switch  fusable pull-out |
Pull-out disconnect -or-
Non-fusable Safety cut off for outdoor installation: Locate cut-off next to electric equipment ... or short reach away... within sight of appliance. Purpose to protect anyone working on electricity ... so person knows power is OFF, and power cannot accidently be turned ON. Resource How to wire safety switch Residential information: varies by state and locale Non-fusable safety switch required on outdoor installations, and high-voltage indoor applications such as 90 amp tankless electric water heater where breaker box not in plain sight of equipment. fusable vrs non-fusable: Non-fusable means there is no breaker or fuse inside the cut-off box. Non fusable is manually-operated on-off switch for safety. fusable means there is a fuse or breaker that trips when detecting high heat. Resource How to wire safety switch Buy: Pullout Disconnect at Amazon fusable pullout disconnect 2-pole 30 amp fusable safety switch/ power cut-off 2-pole 60 amp non-fusable safety switch |
 Ground wireAll phone, satellite, pool equipment, solar systems and electric panels must be grounded. Check local electric codes. What does this mean? Bonding is the connection of metal to a ground wire that is in turn connected to a ground rod driven into the earth to a depth that meets local codes for grounding. Drive ground rod 8-10 feet into soil. Bond #6-8 bare copper wire to ground rod and to solar panels and pipes on roof. Do NOT ground electric system to water pipes. Ground must be connected to ground rod. Stray current corrosion can cause pipes to deteriorate. Uncertain bond to ground because of plastic pipes. Buy: Ground rod and clamps at Amazon Bonding lugs Bond all ground wires together to help prevent surge & lightning damage. Bonding all grounds together will help prevent damage from lightning strikes beyond 100' away... Strong lightning strikes within 100 feet must be handled by lightning rod Local code requires bonding: this includes all ground rods for satellite, TV, phone, solar, electric panel, subpanels (within 100 feet) etc must be connected together and bonded to main electric panel ground rod driven into soil at correct depth to meet local code. Consult local electrician. Codes for grounding depth vary: loose rocky dry soils are less conductive than dense wet soils No system other than lightning rods will protect against direct lightning strike or strike within 100 feet. Move indoors and do not stay on roof, or move metal ladders, or touch anything made of metal when lightning is within 1 mile or can be heard or seen. Resource Why ground wire is needed |
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 Contactors/ relays |
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from my affiliate links every time/ thanks: Amazon As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases Enter Amazon from any link on my site, fill cart with any item ... purchases pay small commission E-mail: geno03245w@gmail.com My response might end up in spam folder, check email folders Waterheatertimer on Twitter Message thru facebook |
Always
keep timer door closed
