Product Description

First published in 1996, with over 200,000 copies sold, this critically acclaimed, perennial strong seller has been updated to account for changes to the electrical code made in the past 10 years. New material has been added on home video security systems. In addition, there's a completely revised tool chapter. Keeping with its familiar and accessible design, this book offers up-to-date information in the same easy-to-read format.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #15741 in Books
• Published on: 2008-02-05
• Released on: 2008-02-05
• Format: Illustrated
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 336 pages

From Library Journal
Electricity is one of the least understood yet most important aspects of do-it-yourself building and renovation. Used safely, it allows us to enjoy a life of convenience, but when its basic rules are violated it can destroy one's home. A master electrician, building inspector, and licensed general contractor, Cauldwell shows how to properly use electricity in this revision of his 1996 text. Starting with electricity's basics, he then explains tools of all types, shows how and where electricity enters the house, and explains grounding (which is vital for safety). Proceeding through the house, Cauldwell demonstrates how to wire both new construction and renovations and to install receptacles, switches, fixtures, and wired-in appliances. Important safety information is provided, including ground-fault circuit interrupters, lightning, and surge protection. Finally, Cauldwell gives instructions for wiring "Above Code," his system of wiring that exceeds the minimum standards required by the electrical code and results in a safer, higher-quality installation. This title does an outstanding job of explaining an area of perennial confusion for do-it-yourselfers. Recommended for every collection.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Midwest Book Review
Master electrician Cauldwell has been wiring houses for almost thirty years and is in a fine position to explain the job. From avoiding the wrong materials to designing new wiring and working with old, Wiring a House focuses on safety and long-term durability alike, telling how to work with both new and old construction. An invaluable guide.

About the Author
A third generation tradesperson, Cauldwell is both a master electrician and master plumber. Cauldwell has an A.A.S. degree in Electronic Engineering and gives seminars nationwide. He is a consultant and Q & A reference, an expert witness and his books Wiring A House and Inspecting a House are popular industry standards.

Customer Reviews

The Secret De-CODE-er Book
I've worked my way through the NEC and taken Residential Electrical training, but this book made sense out of the chaos. In simple terms the author explains, not only the code, but the reasoning behind it ... and then offers a common sense approach to wiring a home not just to meet code, but to meet the needs of today's home owner. I build for Habitat for Humanity. Economy and common sense are our stock in trade. Ya gotta have this one!

Professional advice
This series, For Pros by Pros, is the very best series for practical, detailed information on Do It Yourself projects. Too many books just give general information that leaves you hanging if your situation is not exactly like the description in the book and don't give you sufficient information to completely describe what to expect. This series actually helps you complete the job by telling you what you really need to know.

Full of helpful hints, well worth the money
As other reviewers have pointed out, this is an excellent book for someone with a bit of house wiring experience. It doesn't cover all the basics, and it doesn't completely cover everything one would need to wire a house, but it is chock full of ideas for doing a better wiring job, and making sure you are following the National Electric Code. I especially like the Above Code recommendations--all of which aren't applicable for wiring my cabin, but I've incorporated quite a few.

I'll be going back to this book again and again as my wiring progresses through the final stages. I highly recommend this book as an addition to a library of house wiring resources.