Almost 25,000 electrical fires occur each year in the United States. One way to avoid this type of risk is to take proper precautions when installing fixtures or outlets. If you have some basic skills and the right tools, these tips can help you make the installation process less stressful and time-consuming.
Make Starter Holes
Unless you are installing an outlet or fixture in the same spot as an old fixture or outlet, you’ll likely need to make a new hole. A good way to avoid ruining your drywall is to make two starter holes in opposite corners. Use a skinny flat-head screwdriver. When sawing, stay within the lines and let the saw do the work.
Use a Wire Hanger to Find the Wall Cavity
If you’ll need to pull power to your new outlet, an easy way to find the wall cavity is to drill a small hole and use a wire hanger. This small hole can be conveniently patched once you know where to drill the new hole.
Attach Wall or Ceiling Fixtures to Fixture Straps
With wall fixtures, the fixture strap can often be attached to the fixture outlet box with screws. A nipple and knurled cap can be used to attach the wall fixture. If there are no studs in the ceiling where a ceiling fixture will be installed, it can typically be installed with a strap screwed to the threads in the outlet box.
Choose Your Power Sources Wisely
Both new outlets and fixtures are going to need a source of power. Safe options typically include general-purpose receptacle circuits, smoke detector locations, and locations where un-switched 120-volt power may be available. However, you’ll want to avoid drawing power from boxes with too many wires, like the circuits in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms, as well as circuits that are already being used for motorized appliances.
Use Tamper-Resistant Receptacles
Lastly, don’t forget to use tamper-resistant receptacles when installing indoor or outdoor outlets. The purpose of doing so is to deter kids from sticking metal objects into outlets. Even if you don’t have kids, tamper-resistant receptacles are now required in dwelling units.
If you need help with fixture and outlet installations, the team at JDP Electric is at your service. We install all types of fixtures and outlets in accordance with current regulations at affordable prices. Contact JDP Electric through our website or give us a call at (701) 232-1991.