Get to know what’s behind those electronic equipment!
When you ask the majority of homeowners about the electrical wiring used in their homes, the chances are they will most likely say, “those colorful ones” or the usual wires, or wires in a switch box. Well, if this includes you, then it is OK and we don’t blame you. Knowing about the electrical components like wiring added to your home may seem like a boring topic. The reason is, electrical language can be a bit tough to follow (unless you majored in electrical engineering) and for any technical difficulties, you will call for the electrician's help and get things sorted.
Basic Knowledge of Wiring is Essential
With proper electrical wiring, you can utilize all the electrical appliances and gadgets in your home. Wires work like a silent hero that ensures you have smooth sailing experiences when using electrical objects. So when you require any new wiring or replace the old one, it is better if you know what type of wire or cable you need for the same.
Having a basic knowledge of electrical wiring will help you know more about the existing electrical panels and circuits in your home. For instance, it will be feasible to understand what type of wire you would need for the junction box!
Modern homes or spaces that are built after the 1960s have similar types of wiring mechanisms. And any new wiring requirements need to follow the rules set by local building codes and the national electrical code. Simply put, electrical wiring is all about connecting cables and wires to usual equipment and devices like home appliances, lights, switches, receptacles, and to the main distribution board!
Read on to get a preliminary idea of electrical wiring which we commonly use in our homes. That way you will know what’s behind the plug when you turn on the light switch or TV!
Difference Between Cable and Wire
It is crucial to know some of the basic names or terms concerning electrical wiring. An electrical wire is a conductor or material that conducts electricity. For home wiring, the material is usually copper or aluminum or copper-sheathed aluminum, even though aluminum is not practically used anymore. The wire can be stranded wire or solid metal conductor. An electrical wire is insulated and has a non-conductive plastic coating over it.
A cable,on the other hand, is a combination of two or more wires which are assembled with a single jacket. In modern, contemporary homes and spaces, the nonmetallic (NM) cable is used the most. This included two or more wires wrapped into a plastic sheathing (which works as a protective layer) and includes - one or more ‘hot’ current-carrying wires, one neutral wire and one ground wire.
Non-Metallic Cable
Commonly called NM cable or Romex cable, this type of wire is the most common type of wire used in residential homes. The NM cable holds three or more conductors, including one hot wire, one ground wire and one neutral wire and is wrapped in a flexible plastic sheathing for protection purposes.
This cable type is mostly added to interior home wiring for light fixtures, switches, appliances, outlets and dry spaces. These are color-coded, which means the outer jacket of the cables features different colors to know about the wire gauge.
Here’s a list of common NM cables with their color codes:
- 6-gauge (55-amp circuits) has a black sheathing
- 8-gauge (40-amp circuits) has a black sheathing
- 10-gauge (30-amp circuits) has an orange sheathing
- 12-gauge (20-amp circuits) has a yellow sheathing
- 14-gauge (15-amp circuits) has a white sheathing
- Underground (UF) cable has a gray sheathing
Armored Cable
For local electrical wiring, local ordinances follow certain rules which are more stringent than the national codes or standards. That’s why in some zones or areas NM cables are not used for home wiring usage and instead armored (AC) cables are used.
Simply put, armored cables are added to spaces where NM cables are sufficient. These contain a metallic protective sheathing that offers more protection than a plastic sheathing. Armored cables are not advisable to use in homes or buildings with less than three stories. Also, these are not added to commercial buildings as well.
Underground Feeder Cable
UF (Underground feeder) is a type of NM cable that is specially designed for wet locations and ground burial. For wires running underground or for outdoor projects, you would require the UF cable.
This cable is utilized for supporting outdoor fixtures and major circuit wiring. It contains insulated hot wire, neutral wire and bare ground wire. The UF cable features a protective plastic sheathing around every wire and has a gray outer sheathing.
Low-Voltage Wire
Low-voltage wires are used for circuits less than 50 volts. These are commonly used for electrical alliances that don’t require a lot of electricity. Common examples of the same include thermostats, doorbells, sprinkler systems, and landscape lights.
LV wires range from 12-22 gauge and are insulated or contain a cable sheathing over it. There are fewer chances of shock with low-voltage wires but still, it is a good idea to turn off the devices after use.
THWN/THHN Wire
THWN/THHN are the common types of insulated wires and include a single conductor, which includes color-coded insulation. These wires are protected with either a plastic or tubelike metal conduit.
The color-code mechanism consists of:
- Hot wires - Black, red or orange
- Neutral wires - white or brown
- Ground wires - Yellow-green or green
The insulation properties of THWN/THHNwires are defined by:
- T - Thermoplastic
- H- Heat-Resistant
- HH - Highly Heat-Resistant
- W - Wet Locations Compatible
- N - Nylon-Coated
THWN/THHN wires are used in basements, garages and for connecting the water heaters and garbage disposals. Since these are circuit wires, these never should be handled with circuits on.
Data and Phone Wire
Phones and data or internet wires are low-voltage wires. Cat 5 category cables are commonly used for telephone and data cables. The Category 5 cable includes 8 wires that are wrapped together in four pairs and are useful for clear connection for phones and internet data transmission. Cat 5 cables offer better quality and capacity than the regular or standard phone wires.
Practically, the data wiring doesn't contain a high voltage volume but you still need to be cautious about keeping the data wiring away from the household wiring. Make sure to not touch the bare wires anytime.
Roomwise Requirements of Electrical Points
Here’s an expert list of electrical points you will require in each room or area of your home:
Entrance or Foyer
- 4 Light Points (for entrance light, spot light, etc)
- 2 fan points
- Doorbell
- Point for Video Phone
- 16amp Point Switch for AC
Living Room
- Near TV - 4-5 Sockets (for TV, digital cable box, phone charging, etc)
- Fan and Light Point
- AC Point
Kitchen
- 6 amp Light Switch
- 16 amp Point
- Fan Switch
- Exhaust Fan switch
- Points for Refrigerator, Chimney, and Microwave
- 2 Sockets for Mixer Grinder
- 2 Extra Points for Appliances like Coffee Machine, Baking Mixer
- Water Purifier Point
Dining Area
- Lights and Fan Point
- Fan Point
- Decorative Lighting Points for Chandelier or Pendants
- AC Point
- 2 Extra Sockets
Bedroom
- 6 amp 2 Way Light in 1 Point
- Fan Point
- 16 amp Switch for AC
- 2 Sockets Near Side Tables for Night Lamps, Phone Charger
- Dressing Table Light, Socket for Hair Dryer, etc
- 2 Points for Study Table
Bathroom
- 2 Lights Point
- Light Near the WC Zone
- Exhaust Fan Point
- 16 amp Geyser Point
- Mirror Light
- Extra Socket for any Selective Appliances
Note - Many homeowners prefer to combine the light and exhaust fan in one switch only. Also, some may prefer to add a mini wall-mounted fan inside the bathroom.
Utility Area
- 2-4 Light Point
- 16 amp Point for Washing Machine
- 2 Extra Sockets for Other Household Appliances
Balcony
- Light Point
- Extra Socket for Garden Decor lights and other purposes
MCB Board
- Fuse and Circuit Breaker Switchboard Near Entrance or Passageway
- Inverter Requirement, depending on the Voltage Fluctuation
Note - Home Appliances like Geyser, AC,etc may need direct wiring to the MCB Board. Let the electrician guide you over the same. Also, the low or fluctuating voltage can cause tripping of the switch inside the MCB console, so plan accordingly for inverters.
All in All
The correct electrical upgrade can enhance the functionality and appearance of your home. You can experience or notice the difference when you opt for the right electrical objects for your chosen room or space.
Ensure to use quality electrical equipment and objects only and get them installed by an expert technician who can guide you over the technical knowhow.
Frikly offers the finest electrical wires, switches, and more that are guided by quality, design, and unbelievable prices. Click here to get your required electrical objects and enhance the interiors of your home!
Also Read : Everything You Need To Know About Lighting In Interiors
