How to audit the electrical wiring of an apartment

If you purchased an apartment, you probably wondered about the overhaul, especially if this apartment is in poor condition. One of the stages of the overhaul is partial or complete replacement of wiring. If you are sure that the wiring of this apartment does not meet the expected loads and you have enough money, then make its full replacement. In this case, you will be absolutely sure of the quality of the wiring of your apartment.

The option of partial replacement of the apartment wiring is also possible, which is important for those who do not have enough funds necessary for its implementation. In order to determine whether the replacement of the wiring of the apartment is necessary, it is necessary to make its audit. The question of how to conduct an audit of wiring, we will consider in this article.

The purpose of the posting audit is the identification of problem areas that need to be replaced. What is meant by problem areas? These are parts of the wiring that do not correspond to the load of household appliances that are planned to be connected in a particular room of the apartment.

In addition, problem areas can be called those that are not mounted in accordance with the rules. For example, one of the wiring lines consists of several parts, while the conductors are connected by twisting. In the future, it is highly likely that this line will be damaged, since the twisted wires oxidize over time, which in turn leads to their heating and further damage.

Where to start conducting a wiring audit? First, determine the load of household appliances that you plan to include in a particular room of the apartment.

Next, inspect the outlets of each room of the apartment. At the same time, pay attention to the rating data indicated on each outlet. We need the rated current of each outlet. If you plan to replace the outlets, then you can skip this step.

Next, you need to find out which wire is connected to each outlet of the apartment. To do this, remove the socket housing and inspect the wire that is connected to this outlet. What to look for during the inspection? Look at the cross section of the wire and the condition of the insulation coating.

If the wire was laid more than a dozen years ago, then it is highly likely that its insulation is not suitable for operation. Usually, unsatisfactory insulation can be determined by external signs. If the insulation crumbles at the slightest impact, it is imperative to replace this electrical wiring line. There is a high probability that the other wiring lines of the apartment are in a similar condition. In this case, a partial replacement of the wiring is not appropriate. You need make a complete replacement of the wiring of the apartment.

If the wire insulation is in normal condition, then visually determine the cross section of the wire. As a rule, the wire for connecting the socket is selected with a section of 1.5 or 2.5 squares. In addition, pay attention to the material from which each wire is made. Record this data and make a conclusion about what current this or that wiring line can withstand. The current values ​​are determined by reference books, which take into account both the cross section of the wire and the material from which it is made.

Comparison the calculated data with previously performed calculations of the estimated loads.Compare the nominal values ​​of the wires of the wiring lines of each room and the expected loads of household appliances that will be located in each room. At the same time, consider the possible increase in the amount of power consumption of electrical appliances, as well as the convenience of connecting them. The main criteria when choosing a section of the wiring lines - How to choose the right cable section.

Based on the analysis, conclude whether there is a need to replace the wiring of the apartment. You may be missing a few outlets. In this case, you can mount several additional lines for connecting outlets. The way to connect new wiring lines can be different. It all depends on the magnitude of the expected load. See how to properly connect sockets and switches here: Schemes for connecting sockets in the apartment and house and here: Principle and wiring diagrams of lighting in an apartment and a house

If you plan to connect powerful household appliances, then the most optimal option is to draw a wiring line directly from the switchboard of the apartment to the proposed place for installing the outlet. How to do it right is written here: How to install and connect a socket for a stove and a washing machine

In the case when wiring diagram made using intermediate junction boxes, it is possible to connect a new line in one of these boxes. This is possible only if the total load of the lines connected in this junction box corresponds to the nominal data of the wire that goes from this box to the switchboard of the apartment.

If there is a need to install a socket to power a small load, it is also possible to connect this socket with a cable. That is, you are powering a new outlet from another outlet in this room.

In addition, pay attention to the condition of the conductor connections in the junction (junction) boxes, if any, as well as in main distribution panel of the apartment. Also pay attention to the condition of the protection devices in the shield. If they do not correspond to the nominal data of the wiring lines supplied by them, as well as if they have visible damage, then replace them.

It is necessary to choose protection devices, in particular circuit breakers, in accordance with the nominal data of the wiring line and the outlet that will be connected to this wiring line.

In conclusion, it should be noted that if you are not sure about the quality of the apartment wiring, then replace it completely. The money spent is offset by its reliability and long service life.