Basic Electrical Wiring Methods Explained

By Dave Rongey
Summary: The following pictures reveal incorrect electrical wiring practices. The correct electrical wiring method is explained with more detailed information and procedures.

Electrical Violations and How They Can Be Avoided

But it's always worked just fine -
This comment may be true for some, however it could be just a matter of time until an incorrect electrical wiring project could turn into a very bad result.

The #1 Mistake with anything is the failure to read and understand instructions, followed next by the choice to not do the project correctly. This creates what could be the start of a very dangerous situation.

Do it right the first time is always my advise, this is why performing all work with a permit and having the work inspected is essential for all electrical projects.

I really admire folks who decide to do electrical wiring projects around the home, but Please don't do work like this!
	This is an illegal wiring splice which should have been placed into a junction box and covered with a blank plate. Click Here to see the Correct and Legal Solution - The Correct Junction Box and Splice Method.
	This 3-prong "grounded'" receptacle is missing a ground wire, worse yet is that one is not found in the receptacle box either. If a grounded device is connected to this receptacle it will create a hazardous condition and the possibility of electrical shock or worse if a device failure should occur. If no ground is available, the inspector will require that you install an old style 2-prong receptacle.


I will be adding more pictures to help you spot possible problem areas with your home electrical wiring.

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Electrical Tip

The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wiring!

The Non-Contact Electrical Tester
This is a testing tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and is the first test tool I grab to help identify electrical wiring. It is a Non-contact tester, [amazon.com], I use for the detection of Standard Voltage in Cables, Cords, Circuit Breakers, Lighting Fixtures, Switches, Outlets and Wires. Simply insert the end of the tester into an outlet, lamp socket, or hold the end of the tester against the wire you wish to test. Very handy and easy to use.

Questions and Answers about Electrical Inspection