There’s more to electrical wiring for a home remodel than most of us think. It often requires updating circuits and the main panel, safely disconnecting unused outlets and switches, and upgrading other components to be sure there is a system in place that can handle the new wiring. Electricraft, Inc., serving San Luis Obispo County’s electrical wiring needs since 1984, has some pointers to help you avoid budget shock from unexpected electrical expenses.
- Early planning is key to avoiding last-minute budget surprises.
- Start by inspecting and assessing the existing electrical system.
- Designing the electrical layout and creating the diagrams.
- Design the new wiring for the future.
Early planning
Early planning is essential. Involve your electrician as soon as the architectural renderings are ready. Reviewing the architectural plans informs the electrician about the scope of the project, including critical measurements.
The larger your remodel project, the more impact on the existing electrical system, and the more planning needed. Remodels often require upgrading electrical components to make sure the system can handle new loads. Planning includes identifying the appliances, electronics, and lighting that are being added.
The electrical work happens in stages, so it’s important for the electrical team to coordinate with the construction team.
- Running cables, setting boxes, and preparing for outlets, fixtures, and appliances happens before drywall is installed.
- Inspections take place at various times during the electrical installation.
- Once the drywall, painting and other finishes are complete, outlets, switches, and fixtures are installed.
- Final testing is complete and the final code inspections are done.
Inspecting and assessing
First, your electrician evaluates the existing system. The San Luis Obispo electrical team evaluates wiring, and other components using advanced diagnostic tools. These tools provide accurate data very quickly, saving valuable time so you can start your remodel as soon as possible.
Evaluating the existing system includes:
A discussion of current issues, such as frequent breaker trips, flickering lights, and reliance on extension cords due to the placement of outlets.
Evaluating the current wiring for potential damage and to make sure it is sufficient to handle higher loads for new connections. Older wiring and an undersized panel need to be updated for safety and to comply with current electrical codes.
Designing the layout
Remodeling your home is also an opportunity to upgrade existing outlets, switches, and lighting.
- Are your current outlets in the right locations to meet your needs?
- Are you relying on extension cords and power strips to connect electronics and lamps?
- Is your current lighting meeting your needs? Would you like brighter kitchen lighting or updated lighting fixtures in other rooms?
- Will adding USB outlets make your life easier?
- Are you considering smart-home controls?
- What appliances and electronics will be used in the newly remodeled sections? Where are the ideal placements for outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures?
- Are you upgrading appliances, and where will they be located?
- Do you want outlets outdoors, and where?
- Where will you have outdoor lights and other power needs?
Answer questions like these for both your existing electrical layout and for your new remodel. What and where is important information because this tells the electrical team what the additional load on the existing system is going to be. Taking advantage of your remodel to customize the existing layout can also save future costs.
Once the layout is set, the wiring diagram can be completed, and upgrades finalized.
Upgrading safety features
Safety features are included in the initial assessment by the San Luis Obispo electrical wiring team. Older homes may require more extensive safety upgrades.
Remodels should implement safety for the entire completed system. GFCI and AFCI protections (Ground Fault Interrupter and Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupter) are specialized devices that detect electrical issues and shut down electrical systems to prevent injury, damage, and fires. Your electrician will discuss the placement of these devices with you. Both are required by the California Electrical Code (CEC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC).
GFCI protects against shock in areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms. AFCI protects against fire in living spaces.
Design for the future
A remodel is a good opportunity to think about future upgrades to your home. Taking advantage of the current remodel to build in extra capacity saves future time and expense, and adds to the perceived value for future homebuyers.
The wiring plan should support your current lifestyle and allow for future upgrades.
Why licensed electricians matter
Electrical mistakes can create fire, injury, and electrocution dangers and should be handled by licensed electricians. Electricraft, Inc. stays up-to-date with the latest electrical codes, and the electricians are continually updating their education and certifications to maintain the highest standards.
- Major electrical work, such as for a remodel, requires a permit. To get the permit, the plans have to be detailed, accurate, and confirm that all electrical codes are met.
- Regulator inspections, those done by code inspectors, occur at certain intervals during the wiring process. Failing to pass an inspection can cause expensive and frustrating delays. The Electricraft team performs its own evaluations and inspections and makes any necessary adjustments before code inspectors arrive. This significantly reduces the possibility of delays.
- Electricraft has been working with local building departments and code inspectors since the company was founded in 1984. The electrical team has long-standing relationships with these departments that are based on professional respect and years of trustworthy work.
Working with Electricraft means you get the skill, knowledge, and experience to build any electrical system from home circuits to complex commercial systems.
