The electrical system in your home is one of the most important components.
The proper design of this system will ensure performance and value for years to come.
Provisions for the future use of the system by the inhabitants are just as important as proper installation.
It is true that over the past few years the electrical appliances in our homes have improved dramatically.
The systems are still usually designed to provide for a minimum of amperage draw.
This article will attempt to give you an idea of design of your system.
Hopefully the design will suit your needs of the present and the future.
The usual culprits of poor electrical system design include poor or no load calculation.
Many times the electrical contractor will cut corners to ensure maximum profits.
Smaller wire, smaller service entrance, and minimum grounding can cause issues in the future.
The National Electrical Code allows a #14 gauge for wire for a 15 amp circuit.
Many custom homes are built with no planning for future installations.
I have provided 4 tips that can help the electrical contractor create a suitable system.
4 Tips to Improve Your Electrical System During Construction · The owner should participate in a load calculation during the design of the structure.
· The owner should insist all devices and wiring included are rated for 20 amps or better.
· Design of the electrical system should provide for future additions.
· The Buyer should spend a little more cash to help the electrical contractor design a product that will last the life of the structure.
Many contractors never provide the home owner with a load calculation of the system.
It is not asked for by inspectors in most jurisdictions.
This calculation will break down every individual circuit and how it will be utilized.
Most electrical contractors use #14 gauge wire in branch power and lighting circuits in residential wiring settings.
The purchaser should insist on #12 wire and devices.
The #12 wire will deter voltage drop.
The 20 amp rated devices are more durable and provide proper service for all the future appliances.
The dream home may have a basement area.
This basement usually ends up being storage space.
The space only needs one 20 amp circuit.
Most homeowners eventually finish this space later.
It can be very costly to increase the service entrance size after construction is complete.
This will make the upgrades much easier.
These upgrades will cost more than the original proposal.
The performance of the system coupled with the ease of upgrade will save thousands of dollars in the future.