How to Save Big by Wiring Your Own Home: A DIY Approach to Electrical Work

Building a new home is an exciting adventure, but it comes with a lot of costs. One of the most expensive parts of the process can be the electrical work. Hiring an electrician to handle everything, from installing panels to running wire, can easily cost between $25,000 to $30,000. However, if you're up for the challenge, doing the electrical work yourself can save you a significant amount of money.

In this blog, we'll break down how you can save thousands by wiring your home on your own, while still ensuring that the job is safe, code-compliant, and efficient.

Starting with the Basics: The Meter and the Trench

The first step in any electrical job is getting the power from the meter into your home. This may sound simple, but there are a few steps involved. The process began by digging a trench in the yard to run the conduit from the meter to the house. Instead of using traditional shovels, the team used an excavator, making the process a lot quicker and more fun. After digging, the next task was getting the wire and conduit through the concrete wall—a task that involved using a core drill. Drilling into a thick concrete wall for the first time may sound intimidating, but with the right tools, it's doable.

Installing the Electrical Disconnect Box and Running the Wire

After breaking through the wall, the team focused on setting up the electrical disconnect box inside the house. This box is crucial because it allows for a disconnecting means where the power enters the home, as required by Idaho state code. Installing the disconnect and running the large, expensive wire from the meter to the breaker panel was an arduous task. The wire cost about $6 per foot, so it was essential not to waste any material.

Running the wires from the main feeder to the breaker panel was another challenging aspect of this project. The team opted for copper wire instead of aluminum, as it was easier to work with despite being slightly more expensive. With the help of a pull string, they successfully navigated the wires through the conduit and connected them to the panel.

Installing the Breaker Panel and Wiring the Branch Circuits

Once the disconnect and main panel were installed, the next phase involved running the branch circuits throughout the home. Branch circuits are the circuits that carry power from the main panel to different parts of the house. For these circuits, the team used LED puck lights and ceiling fan combos, all of which were mounted with ease. One of the key takeaways here is that simplicity can often be the most effective route. For example, instead of using larger, traditional can lights, the LED puck lights offered an efficient alternative that was quick to install.

The team also installed outlets around the house, using a block to ensure that they were all at the correct height. When wiring outlets, it’s crucial to know the rules—such as placing an outlet within 6 feet of any wall. For safety, they made sure to staple the wires every 4.5 feet, securing everything neatly in place.

Making Sure Everything Is Up to Code

Although the DIY approach to electrical work was going smoothly, the process wasn’t without challenges. The team had to adhere to specific codes and regulations, especially when it came to grounding electrodes. These electrodes are vital because they establish a connection to the Earth’s ground, ensuring the home’s electrical system is safe.

The inspector recommended that the team install two electrodes 5 or 6 feet apart. While doing this, they also added a third electrode to ensure full compliance with safety standards. After the installation, the team received clearance to bury the conduit, marking a significant step forward in the project.

A Few Challenges Along the Way

No project is without its challenges, and electrical work is no exception. Despite the smooth progress, a few hurdles remained. The team needed to correct a few things, such as adding an outlet in the second bedroom, properly labeling the neutral wire with white tape, and installing a third ground rod for the separate structure. After these small fixes, the inspector cleared the project, and the home was ready to move forward with the next steps.

The Financial Benefits of DIY Electrical Work

One of the most exciting aspects of this DIY project was the cost savings. The total cost of wiring the home—including outlets, lights, and permits—came to $4,700. By doing the work themselves, the team saved almost $20,000, a significant reduction compared to hiring a professional electrician. Although the process took time and required careful attention to detail, the savings made it all worth it.

Conclusion: Is DIY Electrical Work Worth It?

If you're comfortable with the idea of wiring your own home and are willing to put in the time to learn the proper techniques, the DIY route can save you a substantial amount of money. However, it’s important to remember that electrical work is serious business.

If you’re unsure about your skills, it’s always best to hire a licensed electrician. In this case, the team was able to complete the project successfully with the help of some online resources and a bit of guidance, ultimately saving a significant amount of money. Next up for this home is insulation and drywall, and with the savings from the electrical work, the team can continue making their dream home a reality.