Electrical Codes

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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