Installation Plans and Procedures

Installation planning should start with an analysis of the capacity needed for electrical service for the home. For example, anyone expanding the electrical capacity in her home should consider installing a higher-capacity panel such as 150- or 200-ampere service. Most electrical contractors use 12-AWG copper wiring as a minimum size for all new electrical installations, even for those circuits protected by 15-amp breakers. Although thinner 14-AWG wire is allowed for most residential applications, the heavier 12-AWG wire runs cooler and is more energy-efficient. This also brings the added benefit of an extra margin of safety.

The Residential Electrical Code presently allows electricians to calculate a home's ...

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