Modular homes adhere to most of the guidelines for standard homes. This includes electrical wiring where the houses have to adhere to the National Electrical Code (NEC), and the entire process is almost a replica of the one for standard homes. Since modular homes are built from the inside out, the wiring is done when the home is produced, following the layout of the house.
How Modular Homes Are Wired
Wiring in a modular home is conducted before completing the interior and exterior drywall. Factors like outlets switch locations, and electrical boxes will depend on the home’s layout. Therefore, you never have to worry about adding extra switches or outlets within the house. Since the homes follow NEC standards, the wiring starts at the roof. During this stage, the electrician drills hole to make the areas where the wiring will be installed.
After this, wires are run through electrical boxes where the outlets, lights, and switches will be located. These components are all installed in the home and connected. Furthermore, since the wiring process happens before the completion of the interior walls, nail plates are used to protect the wiring from punctures. The main panel only gets attached, but it’s installed until the home gets to your property. Here, your electrician can set it up while checking whether the wiring is correctly installed and working.
If you plan on having exterior lighting in your modular home, it’s advisable to have it in your electrical plans. This ensures that the wiring is set up simultaneously with the other wiring. It saves you time and money. Attic and basement wiring is conducted at your property, and it’s installed based on your local or state code. These areas are wet areas, and they need proper ground fault installation.
On the other hand, let the specialists know if you plan to add heavy appliances to your modular home. It guarantees that you don’t end up using unsafe connection methods or tripping the breakers. Therefore, always look over the electrical plans for your modular home and go over them with your electrical specialist. It saves you time and money in the long run.
Wiring Components for Modular Homes
When wiring modular homes, there’s more than just installing wires. Below are all the components you’ll need for the modular home to work perfectly.
Outlets
Most of the outlets you plug in your microwave or phone have 120 volts. All these outlets are placed around the home depending on your preferences. You can opt to have four or five in your room over the standard two outlets. For heavier appliances, your electrician will install 220- or 240-volt outlets. You can also use these outlets for your electric stove, dryer, and washer. Using these appliances with the standard outlets might trip the breaker. It’s also not safe. All these outlets will require different wires too.
Electrical Boxes
Nowadays, there are different electrical boxes that you can install in your modular home. These boxes can hold wiring for outdoor fixtures, ceiling fans, lights, and more. For example, junction boxes are used to enclose wire splices. Ceiling fan boxes require different fastening to withstand the weight and rotation. Your electrician will use rectangular boxes to hold the outlets and switches.
Switches
You use the switches to power a room or control your lights. Speak with your electrician to know the different types of switches to install in your home.
Wires
The NEC requires a specific type of wiring to install in all homes. These electrical wires are enclosed and protected using switches, fixtures, and receptacles. The most common type of wire that will be installed in your home is non-metallic. This wire has insulated wire conductors and a unique bare wire for ground connection. The ground conductor is bonded in your house to maintain safety.
Moreover, the insulated wires prevent fires and overheating as electricity flows naturally and gets hot, while the conductors limit the amperage. There are other unique wires that are used for unfinished areas like garages and basements. Specific UF cables are essential for circuit wiring and powering outdoor fixtures.
Main Panel
The fuse box, also known as the main panel, is normally placed near your modular home meter. That’s the central point, and it distributes all current to the appliances, receptacles, and switches.
Picking the Right Electrician for Your Modular Home
When planning on having a modular home, you always have to ensure that you get quality services. Choosing a professional can be arduous if you don’t know what to search for. Below are a few things to consider when finding a good electrician for your modular home.
Recommendations
A recommendation from a friend or family member can be invaluable when looking for the best electrician. If you know of someone with a modular home, you can ask about their experience with their electrician and know whether to use the same professional. In case you’re unable to get recommendations, ask your electrician candidates for references.
Insurance and Licensing
This is the most important consideration when picking a great modular home electrician. A license guarantees you professional services since the electrician has undertaken the necessary courses to conduct their job correctly and safely. When you ask to see the license, ensure it’s current and conduct an online check. Ensure that the license covers modular homes and check whether there are restrictions. It’s also essential to find an electrician who has insurance. Check their policies to ensure that they aren’t expired.
Experience and Qualifications
Not all modular home electricians are the same. You can come across some who have accreditations. When choosing a modular home electrician, select someone with multiple years of experience, and ensure that they offer a warranty for their services. This ensures that you will obtain the best services and electrical safety. Energy efficiency is another thing to consider. You’ll want an electrician who has extensive knowledge of energy-saving technology and products.
Communication and Attitude
Nobody enjoys working with a specialist with sloppy workmanship or a bad attitude. Some things to consider are whether the electrician is timely or whether they call ahead when they plan to come late. Furthermore, check how they communicate with you. When communicating with the electrician, ensure that you understand everything to avoid miscommunication.
Reliable Electrical Services for Modular Homes
At Arc Angel Electric, we have over 17,000 happy customers, 24 trained professionals, and 21 years of experience, and we’ve serviced 12 counties. We offer quality electrical services in the greater Atlanta area, including surge protection, generator and car charger installation, smart home setup, and light fixture services. Our team handles upgrades, installation, replacements, and repairs. We can service both commercial and residential buildings, including remodels and new construction.
