Charles Byers - Ultimate Guide: Wiring. DIY Residential Home Electrical Installations and Repairs with New Switches, Outdoor Lighting, LED, Step-by-Step Photos, and More

9TH UPDATED EDITION

Technical Editor for Updated Edition: Charles T. Byers

Assistant Professor, Residential Remodeling Technology, AAS, AST,
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

CREATIVE HOMEOWNER

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This book may not be reproduced, either in part or in its entirety, in any form, by any means, without written permission from the publisher, with the exception of brief excerpts for purposes of radio, television, or published review. All rights, including the right of translation, are reserved. Note: Be sure to familiarize yourself with manufacturers instructions for tools, equipment, and materials before beginning a project. Although all possible measures have been taken to ensure the accuracy of the material presented, neither the author nor the publisher is liable in case of misinterpretation of directions, misapplication, or typographical error.

Creative Homeowner is a registered trademark of New Design Originals Corporation.

The designations National Electrical Code and NEC are registered trademarks of the National Fire Protection Agency.

ULTIMATE GUIDE: WIRING

UPDATED EDITION

Ultimate Guide: Wiring, 9th Updated Edition
Print ISBN 978-1-58011-575-9
eISBN: 978-1-63741-156-8

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022938737

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Although the methods in this book have been reviewed for safety, it is not possible to overstate the importance of using the safest methods you can. What follows are reminderssome dos and donts of work safetyto use along with your common sense.

Always use caution, care, and good judgment when following the procedures described in this book.

Always be sure that the electrical setup is safe; be sure that no circuit is overloaded, and that all power tools and electrical outlets are properly grounded. Do not use power tools in wet locations.

Never modify a plug by bending or removing prongs. When prongs are bent, loose or missing, replace the entire device.

Dont use 3-prong-to-2-prong cord adapters to overcome ground connections.

Be sure all receptacles and electrical conductors are properly grounded.

If a plug prong breaks off in a receptacle, do not attempt to remove it. Turn off the circuit, and call a licensed electrician.

Be sure receptacles are mounted securely in their boxes and do not move when the plug is inserted. A loose receptacle can cause a short circuit.

Do not use loose receptacles or other faulty electrical equipment until it is repaired or replaced and inspected by a licensed electrician.

Replace all damaged electrical enclosures such as receptacle, switch, and junction boxes.

Use extension cords only when necessary, on a short-term basis; never use extension cords in place of permanent wiring.

Be sure all extension cords are properly sized and rated for the use intended.

Keep electrical cords away from areas where they may be stepped on, pinched between door jambs, or otherwise damaged.

Dont use appliance or extension cords that show signs of wear, such as frayed or dried sheathing or exposed wires.

Visually inspect all electrical equipment and appliances before use.

Never staple, nail, or otherwise attach an extension cord to any surface.

Always turn off tools and appliances before unplugging them.

Never unplug a tool or appliance by yanking on the cord; always remove the cord by the plug.

Always keep the area in front of your main panel clear and dry. Work on a rubber mat or dry board and maintain an unobstructed area of at least 3 feet in front of the panel. The panel must be easily accessed.