Install Wiring in a Basement
|
Can the Romex brand wire be used when Wiring a Basement? Romex or metal cable: What should be used when wiring a basement and how is the wiring protected. NEC Code Article Sections 336-6c, 333-11 |
Basement Electrical Wiring
Electrical Question: Can the Romex brand Type-NM wire be used when Wiring a Basement?
- I am planning to install wire from the breaker panel, along the ceiling, and to a outlet near the floor in a basement. When wiring in a basement, is the Romex type wire OK to use? We have heard that you should use metal cable.
This electrical question came from George, in California.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question George.
Basement Electrical Wiring
Application: Electrical Wiring for a Basement.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This electrical project is best performed by a Licensed Electrician.
Tools Required: Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools for Rough-In Wiring, Electric Drill and Auger Bits, Extension Cords, and a Ladder as needed.
Estimated Time: Depends on the extent of the basement wiring project and available access to the project area.
Precaution: Any existing wiring in the immediate area that may interfere with the new wiring should be identified, turned OFF and Tagged.
Notice: Installing additional electrical wiring in the basement should always be done according to local and national electrical codes with a permit and be inspected.
Electrical Wiring for a Basement
Basement Wiring – NEC Sections 336-6c, 333-11
The concern is that the wiring is protected and not exposed to physical harm.
Other considerations include the future use of the area. You do not want to run surface wiring if the area may be finished off with sheet rock or other materials in the future.
Romex:
The code states that the Romex style wiring made up of two conductors smaller than No.6, or three No.8 must be run through holes bored in joists, or on running boards which would provide protection to the wiring.
Armored BX:
In unfinished basements, exposed runs of armored (BX) cable can be run on the undersides of joists in basements where supported on each joist and so located as not to be subject to physical damage.
In Unfinished Basements
Where the cable is run at angles with joists in unfinished basements, it is permissible to secure cables not smaller than two No. 6 or three No. 8 conductors directly to the lower edges of the joists. Smaller Romex type cables shall either be run through bored holes in joists or on running boards.
“On Running Boards” refers to wood members such as joists, girders or supporting members. This is accomplished by following these members there by having a means for protection and anchoring.
PLEASE NOTE:
The local inspection authority usually interprets the meaning of “subject to physical damage”. Your local building inspector enforces their “Interpretation of the Code”, thereby having the final authority.
More about Basement Electrical Wiring
Wiring Electrical Outlets for the Home
Home electrical wiring includes 110 volt outlets and 220 volt outlets and receptacles which are common place in every home. See how wiring electrical outlets for the home are done.
Home Electrical Circuit Breakers
A guide to home electrical circuit breakers and how they work to protect your electrical wiring. When properly installed, your home electrical wiring is protected by a circuit protection device.
Electrical Wire for the Home
Complete listing of electrical wire types and parts used for home projects with electrical code information serves as selection guidelines.
How to Install Basement Electrical Wiring
Basement Electrical Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Basement Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
You identified your project to be about Electrical Wiring, so you might find this information useful:
Electrical Wiring
Home electrical wiring projects with pictures and wiring diagrams.
The following may also be helpful for you:
Learn more about Home Electrical Wiring
|
||||||||
Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
The Safest Way to Test Electrical Devices and Identify Electric Wires!The Non-Contact Electrical TesterThis 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 that I use to easily Detect 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.
The Quickest Way to Check for Faulty Electrical Wiring!The Plug-In Outlet TesterThis is the first tool I grab to troubleshoot a problem with outlet circuit wiring. This popular tester is also used by most inspectors to test for power and check the polarity of circuit wiring. It detects probable improper wiring conditions in standard 110-125 VAC outlets Provides 6 probable wiring conditions that are quick and easy to read for ultimate efficiency Lights indicate if wiring is correct and indicator light chart is included Tests standard 3-wire outlets UL Listed Light indicates if wiring is incorrect Very handy and easy to use.
Strip Off Wire Insulation without Nicking and Damaging the Electric Wire!The Wire Stripper and Wire CutterMy absolute favorite wire stripping tool that I have had in my personal electrical tool pouch for years, and this is the tool I use to safely strip electrical wires. This handy tool has multiple uses: The wire gauges are shown on the side of the tool so you know which slot to use for stripping insulation. The end of the tool can be used to grip and bend wire which is handy for attaching wire onto the screw terminals of switches and outlets.. The wire stripper will work on both solid and stranded wire. This tool is Very Handy and Easy to Use. |
||
| More articles about Basement Questions, Electric Wiring and Home Electrical Wiring: | |
| « Previous | Next » |
| Installing and Testing Dusk to Dawn Light Fixtures | Why an Outdoor LED Light Can Trip a GFI Outlet |
