RESIDENTIAL
WIRING
INTRODUCTION
NOTICE TO TEACHERS.
Children have an unbounded curiosity about electricity. They want
t o know how electricity is distributed in their homes and neighborhoods.
Because 120VAC is lethal, we go to great lengths to hide the network
behind walls or otherwise to render its components inaccessible.
Substituting batteries and bulbs for the real thing is a
poor bargain.. The safety protocol printed in the next paragraph
provides a safe way for students to assemble components and for
you to test the circuit. You do not need a lab with multiple outlets;
in fact, a space with one GFCI outlet and an extension cord works
best.
SAFETY PROTOCOL
1. All connections are made with the
power cord not energized.
2. Students assemble assigned circuit and ask for inspection.
3. Inspector looks for proper connections, too much insulation
stripped away
4. Energize circuit only if circuit is safe
5. Do not let students touch any part of circuit while it is energized
6. Test receptacle with light socket plug
7. Ensure that unit is unplugged before going to next circuit
MATERIALS LIST PER CLASS PERIOD
All of the items used in this lab are
readily available at any hardware store. These materials are relatively
inexpensive, costing less than $10 per student partnership. You
will need these items for every partnership:
|
board approximately
1" x 6" x 24"
four blue plastic outlet boxes
twelve feet #14 14-2 cable
two duplex outlets
one toggle switch
one plastic lamp housing
three feet of #14-3 wire |
two 3-way
switches
Phillips screwdriver
wire strippers
pliers
electrical tape
one male plug
red and yellow wire nuts
light socket w/ male plug |
Do these six circuits in the order shown.
If you have never done this before, you may wish to review these
pages.
|
1. Read very carefully the wiring
tips above.
2. Do not energize your circuit until told
to do so by your instructor.
3. Do not touch any part of the circuit while it
is being tested |
 |
One. Receptacles are commonly connected
in parallel.If you can find a pair of vacant screws on a receptacle,
you're in business. |
 |
Two. How to switch on a floor lamp
as you enter the room. |
 |
Three. A built-in overhead lamp. |
|
Four. You will need to rename a white
wire with pieces of black tape. |
 |
Five The lamp is to be controlled
by the switch. The receptacle should be energized all the time |
 |
Six. Traveler black
and red go to brass screws. traveler white connects power white
to lamp white.Power black, lamp black go to black screws. |
|
1. Read very carefully the wiring
tips above.
2. Do not energize your circuit until told
to do so by your instructor.
3. Do not touch any part of the circuit while it
is being tested |
last edited 12/24/05