The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
Practical Electricity And House Wiring
Wiring With Non-Metalic Sheathed Cable
In the previous chapter all the outlets which constitute the electrical installation of our house were wired on paper, in Figs. 120 to 123. In this chapter we will cover the actual wiring of those outlets, using non-metallic sheathed cable. It might at first glance appear logical to show first how to wire outlet No. 1, then outlet No. 2, then No. 3, and so on. However, since the outlets in Figs. 119 to 123 have been numbered in logical sequence as they appear in the various circuits, this would make it necessary to wire first some difficult outlets, then some simpler ones, and so on. Therefore in this chapter covering the actual wiring, the simplest outlets will be discussed first, then more difficult ones, and the most difficult ones of all will come last.
Non-metallic Sheathed Cable.—This material is illustrated in Fig. 125; it goes by several common names such as "Romex," "Cresflex," etc.
It consists of two or more wires of the ordinary rubber-covered type, except without the final cotton braid. In place of the cotton braid, a paper wrap is found over each wire, to space the wires from each other. A jute or similar cord is now laid into what would otherwise be empty space, and a final fabric braid of cotton or paper is installed over the assembly. This is then served with a moisture- and fire-resisting compound, completing the cable.
In use, the fabric covering is removed for about 8 in. at the end. This is accomplished by cutting carefully along the cable between the wires, avoiding damaging the insulation on the wires. Usually, if the braid is cut for a couple of inches, the filler cord can be grasped with a pair of pliers and made to serve the purpose of a rip cord; by pulling on the cable it will rip the cover as far as desired. A cable ripper shown in Fig. 126 is also a most convenient timesaver.
Cable which contains two No. 14 wires is known as 14-2 (fourteen-two, standing for "No. 14, two-conductor") ; cable with three No. 6 wires is known as 6-3; and so on. If there are only two wires, one is white, the other black; if there are three wires, the third is red.
Usage.—Non-metallic sheathed cable is today used more than any other style of wiring. It is particularly popular on farms where its use is recommended by Code, but also finds wide application in towns and cities. In some cities however it is prohibited by local ordinance. This system requires the use of less labor than any other method.
