Electrician
#1
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Electrician
I was wondering how I would be able to become an electrician so that I would be able to take care of all the household electrical work myself rather than hiring an electrician to do it. I've already been able to do the simple stuff like changing switches and outlets as well as installing ceiling fans (where a prewire was already in place), but that doesn't compare to all the other things that I would like to do like wiring my entire basement, adding recess lights, etc... Anyone have any recommendations on how I can learn these skills (school, apprentice, etc...)? If there are classes that I can take I don't even know where to look. I live in Northern Virginia and have looking into community colleges but couldn't find any suitable courses. My goal is not to have a profession as an electrician but rather to use the skills to do things around the house. Any advice would be appeciated.
Thanks in advanced!
Thanks in advanced!
#2
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In most places of the US you do not have to be an electrician to do your own electrical work on your residence that you own. Generally speaking, you are allowed to do the work. Naturally the same inspection rules are in place, as well as the same rules to follow.
As far as courses are concerned, check your local community college. They often offer classes like this.
As far as courses are concerned, check your local community college. They often offer classes like this.
Last edited by racraft; 07-19-06 at 07:25 AM.
#3
The big box stores usually have a book section with good "how to" books. Find one or two which work for you and read and re read.
I'm sure that Virginia has the big orange and blue box stores.
I'm sure that Virginia has the big orange and blue box stores.
#4
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Electrician
Another possible source of instruction is your adult education classes at your local high school. We have an ongoing electrical codes class at our high school, which is taught by one of the city electrical inspectors.
A good book which I learned about on this forum is Wiring Simplified by Richter,Schwan, and Hartwell, and is based on the 2005 NEC code. I found it on Amazon.com.
If you want a home study course, Tom Henry's Learn to be an Electrician is available from Code-Electrical.com This site also has other books available.
Good luck, and be safe. If you are not sure, get help.
A good book which I learned about on this forum is Wiring Simplified by Richter,Schwan, and Hartwell, and is based on the 2005 NEC code. I found it on Amazon.com.
If you want a home study course, Tom Henry's Learn to be an Electrician is available from Code-Electrical.com This site also has other books available.
Good luck, and be safe. If you are not sure, get help.