Choosing the right electrical wiring for your Gainesville, Florida home can provide you with years of reliable power for all your appliances and devices. Understanding the various types of wiring and how they work can make it easier for you to determine the right setup for your needs. At Mister Sparky, our electricians have the experience and knowledge you need to ensure the best possible wiring solutions for your home and your family. We work with you to determine your electrical requirements and to make sure your wiring is up to code and delivers reliable power for all your current and future needs. Here are some ways in which we can help you find the best wiring solutions for your Gainesville home.
Understanding Electrical Wiring Types
Electrical wiring can be divided into several different categories that offer advantages and drawbacks for specific electrical needs:
- One of the most popular electrical wiring types, non-metallic sheathed cable is designed for interior use and is commonly known under the brand name Romex. Non-metallic sheathed cable is used for lighting and outlets. It is available in a variety of sizes to suit most electrical requirements. Larger gauges of non-metallic sheathed cable wiring are generally required for HVAC systems and appliances.
- Low-voltage wiring is designed to carry current of less than 50 volts. This type of wiring is usually reserved for doorbells and security system installations.
- Armored cable wiring is most often used in basements or for outdoor electrical applications. It is designed to keep out rain and to provide rugged protection against damage for exposed wiring outdoors or in damp or open spaces.
- For sprinkler systems or exterior lighting installations, underground feeder cable can provide reliable electrical power while minimizing the risk of moisture intrusion. Underground feeder cable wiring has robust insulation and a waterproof protective jacket to prevent short circuits and other hazards that can occur with exposed electrical wiring.
Types of Wiring Materials
Another way in which to categorize electrical wiring is by the type of material used in its construction:
- Aluminum wiring was used as a substitute for copper wiring during the 1960s and 1970s. Shortages of copper during this time and high prices for copper made aluminum a viable alternative for many builders. Aluminum wiring, however, presents some serious issues when used in electrical applications. It tends to expand and contract much more severely than comparable copper wire, which can cause problems with durability. Additionally, aluminum wire has only 61 percent of the conductivity of copper, which means it requires a larger diameter to carry the same amount of current. Aluminum, however, is significantly less expensive than copper.
- Copper wiring is preferred by electricians and many municipalities because it is safer and more durable than aluminum. Copper wiring has higher thermal and electrical conductivity and does not expand or contract as significantly when heat is applied. Less likely to corrode or break, copper is usually the best choice for upgrading or replacing electrical wiring in Gainesville, Florida.
The specific configuration and wiring type needed for your home electrical system will vary depending on your electrical load. Your local electrician can evaluate your power needs and provide you with the best recommendations for upgrading or replacing your home wiring.
Insulation for Electrical Wiring
Electrical wire must be insulated to protect it against moisture and to reduce the risk of shock to you or your family members. Insulation is available in several different types, including insulation rated for underground use, thermoplastic, and thermoset. Your service technician can determine which of these insulated wire types are most appropriate for the specific application you need for your home in Gainesville.
Determining Electrical Load
Your wiring must be sized correctly to provide adequate power for appliances and major electrical systems, including your HVAC unit. To determine the correct wiring size for your home, your electrician will typically ask you questions about your use of electricity. These questions will include the number of large appliances you typically use in a given week, the number of small appliances connected to your kitchen circuit, and the size of your HVAC system. This information will be used to determine the appropriate gauge of electrical wire for each area of your home.
Electrical Wiring Sizes
Depending on the load expected from your electrical wiring, different wire sizes may be required. The American Wire Gauge system is used to ensure standard sizing and capacity for electrical wiring. In general, smaller gauge ratings indicate larger actual wires and greater capacity and amperage. A 16-gauge wire can carry 13 amps of electricity. A 2-gauge wire, by contrast, can carry up to 95 amps of power. Your electrician will typically use different gauges of wire in various areas of your home to meet your electrical needs more precisely. For example, 12-gauge wire may be used to power lighting fixtures and home theater systems. A 4-gauge wire may be used to provide reliable power for electrical subpanels and HVAC systems.
What Is the Best Wiring for My Gainesville Home?
As you can see, there is no one answer to the question of which wiring is best for your home. Electrical wiring comes in many configurations and is designed to provide reliable power for appliances, HVAC systems, and devices throughout your residence. Your local electrician can provide you with detailed recommendations about upgrading or replacing your electrical wiring and ensuring a steady supply of dependable power for you and your family in Gainesville, Florida. By entrusting your project to the professionals, you can enjoy real peace of mind and improved safety at home.
The professional electricians at Mister Sparky can provide you with comprehensive electrical repair and installation services designed to suit your needs perfectly. We are committed to the highest standards of excellence in the electrical industry. Our dedicated service technicians can provide you with the best solutions for replacing your wiring or upgrading your electrical panel to ensure reliable electric service for you and your family. Give Mister Sparky a call today to schedule an appointment with our team. We’re here to serve all your electrical needs now and in the future.