How to Update Basement Electrical Wiring
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How to update the wiring in a home where the main panel is in the basement with a couple of fuse boxes and replacing this with a circuit breaker box. I am Updating a Basement Electric Panel and Circuit Wiring. © By: Dave Rongey |
Basement Electrical Wiring
Electrical Question: I am updating the electrical wiring in my basement and changing from the fuse boxes to a circuit breaker panel.
- Main Electrical Power
The home main panel is in the basement with a couple of fuse boxes. I am replacing this with a circuit breaker box. The power on the outside of the house comes down the mast into the meter, coming out of the meter box instead of the normal one wire running to the breaker box there is two wires coming out and running to the same spot on the fuse box. - Fuse Box Circuit
Why is their two separate wires coming out of the meter box and going to the same spot on the fuse box, instead of one?
This electrical wiring question came from: Brent from Michigan.
Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical wiring question Brent.
Updating Basement Electrical Wiring
Application: Electrical Wiring for a Basement.
Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced – Best installed by a Licensed Electrical Contractor or Certified 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.
Updating a Basement Electric Panel and Circuit Wiring
Note: Updating Electrical Wiring is essential for most older homes to make them safer and more reliable.
Brent, you may be referring to what is known as a parallel feed, where there are more than one cable that supplies power to the same bus or phase of power. This is sometimes used to supply power to a main breaker where two cables will be easier to terminate than one larger cable. Consider the following information which may apply to your home improvement project.
- Upgrading the Electrical System
Improving Home Electrical Wiring is essential for most older homes to make them safe, and it should always begin with an evaluation of the existing electrical service. - Electric Panel Upgrade
The electrical distribution system, which includes the fuse box or the circuit breaker box may be attached to the main electrical service or it may be a separate panel at a different location. - Parts and Materials
The age of the home electrical system and the methods and materials used should be carefully inspected and evaluated by a professional licensed electrical contractor. - Planning the Electrical Upgrade
Plans for adding new basement electrical circuits or updating electrical wiring may then be considered to bring the home electrical system up to current codes which will ensure a higher level of safety for the home and it’s occupants.
More about Basement Electrical Wiring
How to Install Basement Electrical Wiring
Basement Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Basement Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
Electrical Codes for Basement Wiring
Electrical Code Directory covering AFCI circuit, electrical-boxes, electrical-circuit, electrical-code-outlets, electrical GFCI, electrical-grounding, electrical-project, electrical-services, electrical-underground, electrical-wiring, electrical-wiring-code, lighting-code, and smoke-detectors.
Electrical Circuit Breakers
Circuit Breaker and Panels
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.
Using Electrical Testers and Voltage Meters
Understanding Digital Volt Meters
When working on home electrical wiring using voltage meter can play an important part in electrical safety. Electrical testers and voltage meters enable you to identify electrical circuits and help prevent the possibility of accidental electrical shock.
Types of Electrical Testers
The following may also be helpful for you:
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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.
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Hi Tawanda,
First, lets be sure the light bulb is working by testing it in another light fixture before we proceed.
How to Fix a Porcelain Light
The circuit power of a porcelain base light is best tested where the wires are connected to the screw terminals, however lets check a few other possible problems:
Test the Pull Chain Switch
If the pull chain switch does not pull and retract normally then it may be repaired by spraying a non-conductive lubricant into the hole where the chain leads into the base, then gently pulling the chain until it becomes free and begins to operate normally.
Adjust the Center Tab in the Light Socket
If the pull chain works fine, and the light still does not work then turn off the power circuit to the light, and use a wooden Popsicle stick or similar small non-metal device to gently pull down the center tab of the inner light bulb contact slightly so it may come into contact with the center area of the light bulb. Some light bulbs depress the center tab in the light socket which may prevent replacement bulbs from working.
Replace the Pull Chain Switch
I hope this helps you,
Dave
Basement porcelain based single bulb pull chain light doesn’t work. How do I test it? Can you walk me through some possible scenarios with repairs/replacement? Many thanks!