Integrated House Wiring

Integration Options

• With the vast selection of electronics in modern homes, integrating the controls and wiring keeps things simple and efficient. Depending on individual needs, a number of options exist, which includes wiring for just about any electrical gadget on the market. Among the most common inclusions are home security systems, lighting, heating and air conditioners all wired to the same control panel. Swimming pool water features, home-wide music systems and televisions also have the ability to be wired to the same setup. Though this is a convenient setup, it requires special wiring know-how and some heavy-duty wires to prevent surges and shortages.

Circuits

• Providing the home with plenty of circuits is important, particularly in homes with lots of electronics and appliances. Substituting a 40-circuit panel for a 30-circuit model is inexpensive and will greatly reduce short circuits when more than one appliance is run at a time. The minimum required wire size is 14-2, but upgrading to 12-2 provides a sturdier product that will handle more amps, especially ideal in kitchens, workshops or anywhere else large appliances or tools will be operated. According to Askthebuilder.com, 14-2 wire supports 15 amps, equal to 1,800 watts, while 12-2 wire supports 20 amps, equal to 2,400 watts. This additional wattage will prevent circuit breaker trips and electrical shortages.

Tools

• Installing wiring for such a large project is best done at the time of construction. When walls aren't in the way, wiring and making adjustments as necessary is significantly easier. With existing homes, the process is more complicated and time consuming. For either job, linesman's pliers, a razor knife and wire stripping tool are all essential, according to Askthebuilder.com. Additionally, an assortment of screws and screwdrivers are required. All wiring should be done only after plumbing and heating is installed. Wiring in the way of plumbing risks damaging both the plumbing and wires and increasing the time required to install and fix both.

Wiring Basics

• Integrated wiring systems are available from a variety of electronics and home specialty stores, both with or without installation. Most of these combinations are customizable to include any electronic device, appliance or entertainment system in the home. When wiring, use a wiring diagram, available from a number of online sources and from wiring how-to books. This diagram, especially for beginners, should be clearly labeled and easy to read while working. Three wire colors are used in residential wiring: red and black carry current from the breaker to the appliance while white wires carry current from the appliance to the breaker. Most codes will require outlets to be outfitted with Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) protected plugs to prevent shocks and electrocution.