Running new wires through your walls is a common task for electricians when upgrading electrical systems, installing new fixtures, or renovating spaces. While the process may seem straightforward, it involves several steps that require expertise, specialized tools, and adherence to safety codes. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore what’s involved in running new wires through your walls and why it’s essential to hire a professional electrician for this type of work.

Understanding the Project Scope

Before any wiring can begin, a thorough project assessment is essential. This involves:

• Identifying the Purpose: Determine why new wiring is needed. Whether it’s for adding outlets, upgrading lighting, or installing a new appliance, understanding the requirements will guide the entire process.

• Planning the Route: Electricians will map out the best route for the wiring. This includes avoiding obstacles like plumbing pipes, existing electrical wires, and structural components, ensuring that the installation is both efficient and compliant with safety regulations.

• Checking Local Codes: Each municipality has specific electrical codes that govern how wiring should be installed. A professional electrician is well-versed in these codes and will ensure that all work meets local standards.

Preparing the Walls

Once the project scope is clear, the next step is preparing the walls for wiring:

• Turning Off Power: Safety is paramount, so the first action is to turn off the power at the circuit breaker to prevent any electrical hazards while working.

• Cutting Access Holes: Electricians will carefully cut holes in the drywall to provide access for running new wires. This process requires precision to minimize damage to the surrounding structure.

• Using Stud Finders: To avoid damaging existing infrastructure, electricians use stud finders to locate framing studs, which helps them determine where to place the access holes and avoid drilling into anything that might be hazardous.

Running the Wires

With the walls prepared, electricians can begin the actual wiring process:

• Pulling the Wire: Electricians will pull the appropriate gauge wire through the walls, following the pre-planned route. This may involve using fish tape, a flexible tool that helps guide the wire through tight spaces.

• Securing the Wires: Once the wires are in place, they must be secured to the wall framing using wire staples. This prevents movement and reduces the risk of wear and tear over time.

• Making Connections: After the wires are run, electricians will connect them to the appropriate electrical boxes, outlets, or fixtures. This step requires knowledge of electrical circuits and proper termination techniques to ensure a secure connection.

Finishing Touches

Once the wiring is complete, several final steps must be taken:

• Installing Electrical Boxes: Electrical boxes must be installed at each outlet or fixture location to house the connections safely. Proper installation of these boxes is critical for safety and accessibility.

• Sealing Access Holes: After the installation, electricians will seal any access holes in the drywall, ensuring the area looks clean and professional. This may involve patching with drywall compound and repainting if necessary.

• Testing the System: Electricians will conduct tests to ensure that all connections are secure and functioning correctly. This may include using a multimeter or other testing devices to verify continuity, insulation resistance, and mechanical operation.

Restoring Power and Final Inspection

After completing the installation, the final steps include:

• Restoring Power: Once the work has been tested, electricians will turn the power back on at the circuit breaker and double-check all connections and outlets to ensure they function correctly.

• Final Inspection: Many jurisdictions require a final inspection by a local authority to ensure that all work complies with electrical codes. A licensed electrician will ensure that everything is up to standard and will coordinate any necessary inspections.

Call Thomas Edison Electric for New Wiring

Running new wires through your walls is a complex process that requires professional expertise, specialized tools, and strict adherence to safety codes. Attempting to tackle this task without the necessary skills and knowledge can lead to dangerous situations, code violations, and costly repairs. 

At Thomas Edison Electric, our licensed electricians are equipped to handle all aspects of wiring installations safely and efficiently. If you need to run new wires in your home or business, contact us today for professional assistance!