The rule for electrical outlets is one duplex outlet for every 12 linear feet of wall, because lamps and household appliances usually have 6-foot-long cords. When a doorway comes between, the outlets around it should be located closer than 12 feet apart or you might have to use extension cords in that part of the room. Kitchen outlets are bestlocated above the countertop to handle appliances safely. A duplex wall outlet for every 4 linear feet of kitchen counter space will do nicely.Read more...

When you think of it, there aren’t many modern home conveniences that would work without electricity. Here’s a checklist you can use to help plan your electrical service. Consider electrical service for the following: Read more...

The minimum power supply recommended for most houses today is a three-wire 240-volt, 200-ampere service, especially if the house is larger than 3,000 square feet, if heavy-draw electric appliances such as electric cooking ranges or clothes dryers are planned, or if such features as central air-conditioning and swimming pool pumps will be installed.

A good indication of the power supply available at any site is whether two or three main wires enter the weatherhead fitting on the roof or side of the house. If only two wires are present, the dwelling has 110–120 volt power throughout. If three, then 220–240 is available at the meter.Read more...

If there is one system in a house that shouldn’t be skimped on, it’s the electrical. Like the plumbing in a house, the electrical system is taken for granted until something goes wrong with it or there’s not enough to go around. To properly understand your prints and drawings, familiarize yourself with the symbols in the table below.Read more...