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While some local, state, or provincial governments
may not require licensing or certification of general building contractors,
electrical contractors are much more closely regulated.
It is a universal requirement that electrical systems and wiring
be either installed by a licensed electrician, or inspected and
approved by a certified electrical inspector. While the National
electrical code (NEC) is the authority for evaluating wiring, electrical
inspectors also adhere to local building and electrical codes.
An important aspect of any electrical wiring project is careful
planning. This not only insures adequate service for immediate needs,
but projects ahead for possible future needs, as well. When planning
your project, you may want to visit with your local inspector. He
or she can tell you which code requirements are necessary for your
project, and can give you an information packet that outlines code
requirements.
Electrical Requirement Considerations
A 15 amp receptacle might be adequate for a bedroom. But a family
recreation room might require at least two 20 amp circuits. Building
a large addition can add a considerable load to the main electrical
service; in about 25% of existing homes, upgrades are required.
Many structures have 60 amp service boxes. One common solution
to meet the requirements of additional circuits is to upgrade to
a 150 amp box. In some cases, the electrical service box may be
adequate, but there is no space left to add new circuits. In that
type situation a sub-panel can be added to provide additional space.
Residential electrical work can be done by the homeowner, as long
as the work is inspected and certified by an electrical inspector.
However, there are technical aspects such as figuring circuit loads
and wiring the service boxes that make the project difficult. And,
of course, working with electricity is a serious matter and can
be dangerous. Therefore, hiring a licensed electrician may be well
worth the investment.
The following are some of the more common electrical code
requirements:
- The rating of an outlet box must match the rating of the circuit.
There is a difference between an outlet box for a 20 amp circuit,
and one for a 15 amp circuit. Using a 20 amp outlet on a 15 amp
circuit could overload the circuit and create a hazard.
- Due to the close proximity of water and potential shock hazard,
kitchen and bathroom areas, as well as all exterior outlets, must
be protected by GFCI (Ground-fault circuit interrupter) outlets.
Devices that automatically shut off in the presence of a ground
fault. In most localities, all outlets must be properly grounded.
- Electrical service cables installed in the framing must have
at least 1¼-inch of wood protecting the wire from nails
or screws driven into the framing studs. In areas where 2X2-inch
framing is used, metal protector plates must be properly placed
to protect the wiring from screws or nails.
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