New electrical installations involve setting up an electrical system from scratch, which includes wiring, outlets, switches, fixtures, and more. Whether you’re building a new home, adding an extension, or creating a new room. New electrical installations should be performed by licensed electricians to ensure safety and code compliance. Electrical work can be complex, and professional expertise is essential for both the safety and the long-term functionality of your electrical system.
New Electrical Installations:
1. Electrical Plan and Design:
- Begin by developing a comprehensive electrical plan that outlines the location of outlets, switches, lighting fixtures, and the routing of electrical cables. Ensure your plan complies with local electrical codes and standards.
2. Permit and Code Compliance:
- Before starting any electrical work, obtain the necessary permits from your local building department. Ensure that your plan adheres to all local, state, and national electrical codes.
3. Electrical Load Calculation:
- Calculate the electrical load for the new installation to determine the size of the electrical service panel and the circuits needed to accommodate the power requirements.
4. Wiring and Cable Installation:
- Install electrical cables (typically NM or Romex cable) to carry electrical power to outlets, switches, and fixtures. Route cables through walls, ceilings, and floors according to your electrical plan.
5. Electrical Box Installation:
- Install electrical boxes for outlets, switches, and fixtures. These boxes provide housing for connections and safety.
6. Outlet and Switch Installation:
- Install outlets, switches, and receptacles at specified locations according to your electrical plan. Ensure all connections are secure.
7. Lighting Fixture Installation:
- Mount and connect lighting fixtures, including ceiling lights, wall sconces, and outdoor lighting, based on your design.
8. Circuit Wiring:
- Design and install separate circuits for lighting, outlets, appliances, and specialized equipment. Make sure each circuit is appropriately sized and protected with the right-size breakers or fuses.
9. Grounding and Bonding:
- Ensure that all metal components, such as electrical boxes and fixtures, are properly grounded and bonded to maintain electrical safety.
10. GFCI and AFCI Protection:
- Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protection for outlets in areas with potential water exposure and Arc Fault Circuit Interrupter (AFCI) protection for areas prone to arc faults.
11. Electrical Panel and Service Entrance:
- Install or upgrade the electrical service panel (breaker box or fuse box) to meet the power requirements. Connect the panel to the main service entrance.
12. Testing and Inspection:
- After completing the installation, conduct thorough testing and inspections to ensure that the wiring is correctly connected and meets safety standards.
13. Documentation:
- Maintain detailed records of the installation process, including the electrical plan, the work performed, and any changes made to the electrical system.
14. Final Inspection:
- Schedule a final inspection with your local building department to verify that the new electrical installation complies with all codes and safety regulations.
15. Safety and Power On:
- After receiving approval from the inspection, you can safely turn on the power to your new electrical installation and use it as intended.
If you need any new installation help give us a call at (360) 515-4779