Electrical Basics 101

 

Note to the Reader:

 

            We not responsible for injuries suffered or losses and damages incurred as a result of abiding by the information provided in this guide. Before beginning any project please review the instructions carefully, and if you have any questions or doubts, consult local authorities or experts. Because regulations and codes vary greatly you should always check with authorities to make sure that your project complies with local regulations and codes.

 

Understanding Wiring:

 

Electricity is the flow of electrons through a conductor (copper or aluminum wires in residential construction).  For general use electricity must travel in a loop called a circuit. In most occurrences electricity travels out to a fixture or device through a hot wire (commonly coated in black or red insulation) and back through a neutral wire (commonly coated in white insulation). Electricity ceases to flow when the circuit is broken at any point.

            Newer homes are usually grounded. Grounding wires (commonly coated in green insulation or left bare) connect all outlets to the earth. This is a very important safety feature as ungrounded outlets can give a powerful shock if there is a short circuit due to a damaged device or wire. An additional commonly used safety feature is polarization.

 

Voltage, amps and watts

 

Voltage is the electrical pressure exerted by a power source. Common North American power fixtures use 120 volts. Larger devices such as central air-conditioners and ranges require 240 volts. The amount of electricity used by each fixture or device varies, but the voltage on all wires is approximately 120 or 240 volts. The thicker the wire the more electricity travels through it. Amperes (amps) and watts refer to the amount of electrical current and power used.

 

Knowing your limits

 

            Most instillations and repairs on wires, fixtures and devices you can do yourself but do not touch anything outside of your home. If you have questions or concerns regarding the wires entering your house or leading from the meter to the service panel, call your utility company since these wires are usually their legal responsibility.

 

Circuits

 

            Regardless of whether they have breakers or fuses, service panels divide electrical current into several circuits. Every circuit carries electricity from the service panel via hot wires (commonly coated in black or red insulation) to various outlets, and then back to the service panel via a neutral wire (commonly coated in white insulation).