If you are trying to choose the best type of house wiring for your home in Fort Myers, you need to think about the local climate, building codes, and the specific requirements of your household. These houses have different needs from those of other parts of the country. With the proper wiring, you can count on having a safe, reliable, and efficient system that can provide electricity throughout the year. Let’s look at how to select the best option for your Fort Myers home.
Some Factors That Can Affect Your Decision
Whether you are building a new home or remodeling an existing structure, you have a few choices when it comes to choosing your electrical system. There are plenty of factors that need to be considered during this time.
Since Fort Myers is near the coastline, you have to think about how moisture, sea salt spray, and other environmental factors can affect your decision. Florida has a subtropical climate with high humidity and occasional heavy rains. For that reason, all the wiring used in your home should be resistant to moisture and corrosion. Over time, these areas can quickly show signs of damage without the proper systems in place. If you have any outdoor installations or outlets near water, you may want to use conduit wiring or armored cable for added protection.
Also, there are specific local building codes that you need to abide by. No matter what you choose, you need to follow these regulations, or your house wiring will not be approved for usage. The City of Fort Myers follows the Florida Building Code, which sets standards for electrical systems in the state’s residential and commercial properties. You may want to work with a licensed electrician familiar with these codes to ensure that your wiring meets safety and legal requirements.
Additionally, think about your home’s future electrical needs. If you plan to add high-demand appliances or expand your electrical system, choose one that can handle increased loads. For example, if you plan to purchase an electric vehicle, you will need a high-voltage system that can fully recharge the batteries. For new constructions or major renovations, using wiring that supports higher electrical capacities can prevent potential issues and upgrades in the future.
In any case, you will always want to prioritize safety and reliability when selecting wiring for your home. Modern wiring systems, such as NM cables and conduit wiring, provide enhanced safety features compared to older systems like knob-and-tube wiring. No matter what you choose, you need to ensure that all wiring is properly installed, insulated, and grounded to reduce the risk of electrical hazards.
What Types of House Wiring Are Available?
Now that you have established some of the important priorities for your home, you will want to explore the different types of wiring. Some of the most popular choices in the area include:
Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable (NM Cable)
This wiring system is often known as NM cable or Romex. It is one of the most popular wiring types used in residential construction. NM cable has insulated conductors encased in a plastic sheath. This type of wiring is less expensive than others, making it a budget-friendly option for homeowners. Along with that, the flexible plastic sheath makes it easier to work with and install in walls, ceilings, and floors.
However, NM cables are less resistant to physical damage compared to metal conduit options. They can be vulnerable to rodent damage or abrasion. These cables are great for general residential wiring in dry areas of your home. However, in spots with higher humidity or potential exposure to water, you might want to explore some alternatives.
Armored Cable (BX) Wiring
An armored cable is a type of wiring encased in a flexible metal sheath. If you need additional protection, you may want to consider using this wiring style. The metal sheath protects against physical damage, moisture, and electromagnetic interference. They are an excellent choice if you need extra protection in exposed or high-traffic areas. Additionally, these cables are more durable and resistant to impact compared to NM cables.
There are some disadvantages. Armored cables are more expensive than NM cables due to the cost of the metal sheath. Plus, if you need to have them installed, you will want to find an electrician who has experience with these systems.
Conduit Wiring
This type of wiring involves running electrical wires through metal or plastic pipes, known as conduits. There are several types of conduits, including Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT), Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC), and Plastic Conduit (PVC).
Conduits provide excellent protection for wires against physical damage, moisture, and corrosive elements. Metal conduits, such as RMC and EMT, offer superior durability. Additionally, they are resistant to impact and abrasion. You can use this wiring in various settings, including exposed, buried, or concealed installations. Conduit wiring is a good choice for areas prone to moisture or physical damage, such as outdoor installations, garages, or commercial settings.
Like BX, this type of wiring is more expensive than NM cable due to the cost of materials and labor. Additionally, since this process is more complex and time-consuming, you will need to hire someone with specialized tools and skills to perform the job.
With many options on the market, finding the right one to meet your needs can be difficult. With a home in Fort Myers, this unique location requires you to find a durable wiring system that can withstand all the environmental challenges, including high heat and humidity.
At Mister Sparky, our team of skilled and licensed electricians can help provide you with a few options for your home. We are here to assist you in finding the best home wiring to make sure you have a safe and reliable electrical system. Whether you want a conduit or a BX system, we have the skills and tools to install this wiring in your house. When you are ready to explore your options, please contact us for an in-home appointment.