Electricity is a major construction cost when building a home. Since it plays a major role in how a home functions, homeowners also need to be familiar with it. Whether you're upgrading your system, getting new appliances, or adding a new section to your home, how it gets and distributes electricity is a major component that many overlook when considering home building and renovations.
Whether you're a real estate investor, contractor, or homeowner, a basic understanding of electrical wiring is essential for safety and efficiency when it comes to your home’s power system. In this guide, we'll discuss the basics of electric distribution and how it pertains to your home.
What Is Electric Distribution?
Electric distribution is the process of supplying power to various parts of a structure, including homes and businesses. From a single entry point, electricity is sent to multiple outlets or devices throughout the structure. Let's take a look at what goes into electric distribution from start to finish.
- 1. Electricity enters the building from an external source, such as a utility company or generator.
- 2. The power is routed through the main service panel, which distributes it to individual circuits throughout the home.
- 3. Each circuit branches out from the main panel and runs along walls, ceilings, and floors to reach outlets and other devices in the home.
- 4. The electricity reaches individual outlets and devices where it can be used by appliances, lights, and other electronic products.
When a homeowner adds new appliances or fixtures, they will generally require additional wiring and circuits to be added in order to hook up the device. This is often done by an electrician, who can install outlets and other devices precisely where it needs to go according to the building codes. Once everything is installed and inspected, the main service panel is then updated to reflect the new additions.
What Is the Service Panel Used For?
The service panel is the central control hub for all of your home’s electrical circuits. All electricity entering the building passes through this panel and is then distributed to various parts of the house. The main service panel also acts as a safety device, as it contains breakers that will shut off power when an overload occurs or if there is a short circuit. This helps prevent fires and other potentially dangerous situations by ensuring that electricity only flows to approved outlets and devices.
What Are the Essential Components of Electric Distribution?
In order for electric distribution to work, several essential components must be in place. Here’s a quick look at some of them:
- Service panel: The main service panel is the control point for all electricity entering the building. It regulates voltage, determines how much power each outlet or device will receive, and contains safety breakers.
- Outlets: Outlets are installed throughout a building and allow devices to be plugged in and powered. They can come in several different types, including 110 volt and 220 volt varieties.
- Wires: Electrical wiring is the system that carries electricity from the service panel to outlets and devices throughout a building. It must be installed correctly for safety purposes.
- Breakers: Circuit breakers are an essential safety feature in any electrical distribution system as they shut off power when an overload or short circuit occurs.
For information on where to buy these components, click here.
The Basics of Wiring a Home
When wiring a home for electrical distribution, there are several essential components that must be taken into consideration.
1. Power Source
The power source is the main source of electrical energy for your home and is typically provided by a utility company. This power source needs to be connected to an external electricity meter in order to measure how much electricity you are using. Usually, you can find the power source by looking for a tall electrical pole near your home and then following the wires from the pole to your meter.
2. Electrical Meter
The electrical meter is the device that measures how much electricity you are using. It’s generally found on the exterior of your home or on a nearby pole. You should periodically check your meter to make sure it is accurate and functioning properly. This will help you avoid any unnecessary charges from your utility company.
Your electrical meter is also a good first step in troubleshooting any power problems you may be having (such as heating issues), as it can reveal whether there is an overload or short circuit within your wiring system.
3. Service Panel
The electrical panel is the hub of your home’s electrical system and contains all the breakers for each circuit in your home. It also connects to the power source through the main breaker. When wiring up your home, it’s important to make sure the electrical panel is installed correctly and in accordance with local building codes. Usually the service panel is located in the basement, garage, or a utility closet. It may also be on the outside of the building.
4. Wiring and Outlets
The wiring runs from the service panel to all the outlets throughout your home. It’s important to make sure that these wires are properly installed and grounded in order to avoid any potential safety hazards. Outlets come in several different varieties, such as 110 volts and 220 volts, and must be chosen based on the type of device or appliance being used. It’s important to make sure that all outlets are properly connected to their circuit breakers in order for them to function correctly.
How to Address Problems With Your Electric Distribution System
If you’re having problems with your electrical distribution system, it’s important to contact a qualified electrician as soon as possible. An experienced electrician can troubleshoot any problems quickly and efficiently. They will also be able to make sure that all wiring is properly installed in accordance with local building codes. Having an experienced electrician inspect your electrical system regularly can help ensure that it is functioning properly and safely.
Endnote
It’s important to make sure that your home’s electrical distribution system is properly installed and functioning correctly. You should consider calling an experienced electrician to inspect your wiring and make sure it functions properly and safely, especially if you are renovating your home or preparing it for rent. Regular inspections can help you avoid any potential electrical problems in the future and ensure that your home is safe.
