Electrical Plan

Technology is developing at lightning speed and your electrical plan should accommodate both your current and future needs. The kitchen is often at the center of this new technology and most homes will require upgraded wiring methods to handle new electronic services and equipment. If you are building a new home or doing a large scope project, you may also want to look into whole house surge protection (vs. individual units) for your new appliances and other electrical equipment.

Homes are now being set up to access a combination of electrical, cable, and fiber optic connections. Flexible modular installation is used to coordinate the wiring infrastructure that controls whole house systems. It can accommodate multiple telephone lines, answering machines, cable and/or satellite television, modems and high-speed data for computers (most with Internet access), fax machines as well as audio, intercom, lighting, temperature, security, and video systems. Flexible modular installation can also accommodate future changes. (See our "Smart Appliances" section.)

An integrated home management system, known as "home automation" is also available. This system integrates your security system, heating and cooling, lighting and home electronics. System activation and management are controlled by keypads, telephones, computers or an optional programmable color touchscreen. Another method utilizes existing power lines to transmit control signals for lighting, appliances, lawn sprinkler, pool pumps and security. For more information, link to "Products--Automation, Audio" at Essential Home Systems.