Building or revamping a new home comes with a long list of challenges and tasks. From redecorating to replacing faulty built-in appliances, you have your hands full. But if you’re planning to set up a smart system in your newly completed home, there’s one crucial step you can’t afford to forget during this process: low-voltage wiring.
Simply put, low-voltage wiring provides power to the various electronic devices and systems set up around your house. This goes beyond simply hooking up standard electrical outlets, however. Depending on how elaborate your plans are for a smart system, you may find yourself needing a significant amount of special wiring. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your electrical system.
What is Low-Voltage Wiring?
Low-voltage wiring, wires designed to handle up to 50 volts of electricity, provide power to a variety of small household electronics. Appliances that rely on low-voltage wiring include:
- Garage door openers
- Thermostats
- Doorbells and/or doorbell cameras
- Alarm systems
- Outdoor lighting
All of the above are usually included in a full smart home system, making the need for specialized wiring clear.
Pro Tip: Smart devices that require more electricity, such as coffee machines or home assistants, won’t be able to rely on low-voltage wiring alone. They could require additional wiring.
Questions to Ask
Your smart house is designed around your needs and preferences. What kind of design are you going for? For a more immediately important question, consider the list of appliances above. How many will you be incorporating into your new smart system? Depending on how many new appliances you’ll be installing or old ones that need replacing, you’ll have to adjust your low-voltage wiring plans accordingly.
When Should You Install the Wiring?
Installing your wiring system should come long before you install your new or improved smart devices. However, don’t set up your wires around the house with no clear plan of what they’re powering and where the devices are. Sit down with an expert first to choose your new devices and draw up a plan for your improved home. Once you know where everything goes, it’s time to install the wires.
Ready for Your New Smart Home?
Building a smart home requires plenty of work, especially when planning where to install the low-voltage wiring the new appliances will require. But in the end, it’s all worth it! A fully automated home will make your life so much easier.
Connect with us to learn more about our electrical wiring services and how to get started on your new smart home.
