Commercial and residential wiring are very different in terms of load demands, equipment setup, and energy needs. Both types of electrical wiring require different classes of materials and procedures. Here are some of the basic differences between the two types:

Residential Wiring

• Power that goes into your home is alternating current, which allows electricity to travel over long distances
• Conduit is generally not used at all (although is permitted to use it)
• Wiring is usually hidden from view inside walls or attic spaces, and is sometimes more inaccessible which is why insulation is important for damage prevention
• In most cases, residential housing is single-phase power
• Most wiring is single-phase/120 Volts—consisting of three wires: positive, negative, & neutral
• Some (more demanding) appliances use a two phase circuit of 240 Volts, such as an air conditioning unit
• Conductors are always completely covered within sheathed insulation, which prevents electrical shock
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Commercial Wiring

• Conduit is always used
• Wiring is usually run through conduits or ceiling rafters so it is easily accessible to your Raleigh electrician
• In most cases, commercial wiring is mostly three-phase
• One wider leg running 208 Volts and two smaller legs running 120 Volts each
• Creates less workload, higher output, better efficiency, longer-lasting equipment
• Often has more insulation than residential wiring
• Generally insulated with Thermoplastic, high-heat resistant, nylon coated wiring
• Protects wiring from high-heat and corrosive environments
• Some cases require other types of insulation for further protection
• Special receptacles may be installed for certain types of applications requiring more power

If you are unsure of how to begin your home or business wiring project, call a local professional. Whether you need residential or commercial electrical services, hiring a professional Raleigh electrician will bring great benefits as trained electricians have a good understanding of safe work practices and how wiring works in general. Plus—many other factors go into installing and designing any electrical system, which is why it’s important to work with experts trained specifically for your property type.