Expert: Bob Thompson - 12/22/2004

Question
Hi Bob - Thanks for taking my question.  I have done some wiring but never installed a new circuit breaker, which I want to do soon.  Is all that's necessary to make this safe, is to turn the main power switch off.  Seems like this should be okay, but I don't want to assume anything.  I have too much respect for electricity.  (Would this be like throwing an individual breaker before working on an isolated electrical problem?)

Also is there a preferred way to install basement wall outlets as far as running wiring in the walls is concerned?  Should all wiring be run thru studs 12" above floor level? My basement is framed with no drywall yet.  I should be able to run a dedicated circuit directly from the breaker box, right to the outlet height and through adjacent studs.

Hope my questions are clear.

Mike

Answer
If you turn off the main breaker, everything will be 'dead' in the panel EXCEPT the wires coming from the meter to the main breaker. Don't touch these.

Your receptacle wiring should run above or below the height you intend to mount the plugs, usually 12 inches to center, or bottom. The wire would have to be on top (or bottom) in order to loop into each box, so you can staple it within 12 inches of the box, for support, and Code.