Build my own cabin - DIY projects

 How-To-Electrical-FAQ

The information below answers many of the frequently asked questions related to wiring your home.  This website is continually updated so please send your electrical questions to BuildMyOwnCabin@gmail.com and I will post a new FAQ response as soon as possible.

What is a GFCI?
How do I convert a 3-prong plug to 2-prong plug?
What is the purpose of a ground prong on an outlet?
Difference between voltages: 110V, 120V, 220V, 240V
What is NEC?
NEC Reference Tables (2011, 2008, 2005, 2002, and 1999)
NEC Adoption by State
What tools do I need for electrical wiring?
Do I need to get my wiring inspected?
Ground versus neutral wire
Difference between breakers and fuses
What size wire should I use?
What does "12-2" mean?
Difference between GFCI breaker and GFCI outlet
What is an AFCI?
How do I wire a 3-way switch?
Should I use plastic or metal electrical boxes?
Why do my lights dim when my AC kicks on?
Is it better to run motors on 120 or 240V?
Is Aluminum wiring bad?
How to get the best deals on wire
What is a wire-nut or marr connector and how are they installed?
Why is one prong wider than the other on an outlet or plug?
Surges, spikes, zaps, and grounding your electronics


Click the icons below to get our NEC® compliant Electrical Calc Elite or Electric Toolkit for Android and iOS.  The Electrical Calc Elite is designed to solve many of your common code-based electrical calculations like wire sizes, voltage drop, conduit sizing, etc.  The Electric Toolkit provides some basic electrical calculations, wiring diagrams (similar to those found on this website), and other electrical reference data. 

 electric-toolkit-android     Electrical Calc Elite