Author: Quinton Phillips and Matthew Wilkinson

Residential Wiring Concepts and Applications, based on the 2026 National Electrical Code® (NEC), is a comprehensive, abundantly illustrated textbook that introduces entry-level students to fundamental concepts and real-world applications that will be encountered in the workplace.

Table of Contents

Abbreviated Contents

Residential Wiring Concepts & Applications 2e, Online Textbook

• Residential Wiring Concepts and Applications
• Copyright © 2027 by The Goodheart-Willcox Company, Inc.
• Preface
• About the Authors
• Reviewers
• Acknowledgments
• The National Electrical Code®
• New to This Edition
• Credentialing Partners and Support
• • HBI Certifications
  • NOCTI Certifications
• Features of the Textbook
• • Chapter Opening Materials
  • Additional Features
  • Illustrations
  • End-of-Chapter Content
• Tools for Student and Instructor Success
• • Student Tools
  • Instructor Tools
• Brief Contents
• Contents
• Feature Contents
• • Pro Tip
  • Safety Note
  • Code Application
  • Procedure
• Part 1 Basic Knowledge and Skills
• Section 1 Introduction to Residential Wiring
• • Section 1 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 1 Getting Started in the Industry
• • Chapter 1 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 1 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 1 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 1 Introduction
  • 1.1 Career Opportunities in the Electrical Industry
  • 1.2 Work Ethics and Workplace Skills
  • 1.3 Introduction to the National Electrical Code
  • 1.4 Licensing and Permitting
  • Chapter 1 Review
• Chapter 2 Electrical Fundamentals
• • Chapter 2 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 2 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 2 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 2 Introduction
  • 2.1 Electricity and Atomic Structure
  • 2.2 Magnetism and Induction
  • 2.3 Electrical Circuit Fundamentals
  • 2.4 Electrical Properties
  • 2.5 Electrical Systems
  • 2.6 Power Generation
  • 2.7 Power Transmission and Distribution Fundamentals
  • Chapter 2 Review
• Chapter 3 Safety in Residential Wiring
• • Chapter 3 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 3 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 3 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 3 Introduction
  • 3.1 General Safety Rules
  • 3.2 OSHA Safety
  • 3.3 Electrical Hazards
  • 3.4 Electrical Safety
  • 3.5 Working at Heights
  • 3.6 Fire Safety
  • 3.7 Personal Protective Equipment
  • 3.8 First Aid for Workplace Injuries
  • Chapter 3 Review
• Section 2 Tools and Hardware Used in House Wiring
• • Section 2 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 4 Hand Tools
• • Chapter 4 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 4 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 4 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 4 Introduction
  • 4.1 Tool Safety and Storage
  • 4.2 Hand-Driven Tools
  • 4.3 Wiring Tools
  • 4.4 Cutting, Tapping, and Filing Tools
  • 4.5 Measurement and Leveling Tools
  • 4.6 Demolition, Repair, and Cleanup Tools
  • Chapter 4 Review
• Chapter 5 Power Tools
• • Chapter 5 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 5 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 5 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 5 Introduction
  • 5.1 Power Tool Safety
  • 5.2 Corded and Cordless Power Tools
  • 5.3 Power Cutting Tools
  • 5.4 Drills
  • 5.5 Drill Bits
  • 5.6 Drilling Basics
  • Chapter 5 Review
• Chapter 6 Electrical Test Equipment
• • Chapter 6 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 6 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 6 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 6 Introduction
  • 6.1 Voltage Testers and Meters
  • 6.2 Multimeters
  • 6.3 Ammeters
  • 6.4 Plug-in Testers
  • 6.5 Continuity Testing
  • Chapter 6 Review
• Chapter 7 Fasteners and Anchors
• • Chapter 7 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 7 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 7 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 7 Introduction
  • 7.1 Machine and Coarse-Thread Screws
  • 7.2 Anchoring Hardware
  • 7.3 Nails
  • Chapter 7 Review
• Section 3 Materials Used in House Wiring
• • Section 3 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 8 Electrical Boxes
• • Chapter 8 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 8 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 8 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 8 Introduction
  • 8.1 Electrical Boxes
  • 8.2 Nonmetallic Boxes
  • 8.3 Metallic Boxes
  • 8.4 Ceiling Fan-Rated Boxes
  • 8.5 New Work and Old Work Boxes
  • 8.6 Weatherproof and Outdoor Boxes
  • 8.7 Electrical Box Covers
  • 8.8 Low Voltage, Data, and Communication System Boxes
  • Chapter 8 Review
• Chapter 9 Electrical Conductors and Connectors
• • Chapter 9 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 9 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 9 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 9 Introduction
  • 9.1 Conductor Sizing
  • 9.2 Cables and Conductors
  • 9.3 Ampacity
  • 9.4 Conductor Material
  • 9.5 Conductor Connectors and Fittings
  • Chapter 9 Review
• Chapter 10 Electrical Conduit
• • Chapter 10 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 10 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 10 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 10 Introduction
  • 10.1 Electrical Conduit
  • 10.2 Electrical Conduit Sizing
  • 10.3 Metallic Conduit Used in Residential Wiring
  • 10.4 Nonmetallic Conduit Used in Residential Wiring
  • 10.5 Fittings and Supports for Conduit
  • Chapter 10 Review
• Chapter 11 Electrical Devices
• • Chapter 11 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 11 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 11 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 11 Introduction
  • 11.1 Standard Receptacles
  • 11.2 GFCI and AFCI Receptacles
  • 11.3 Electric Dryer and Electric Range Receptacles
  • 11.4 Switches
  • Chapter 11 Review
• Chapter 12 Panelboards, Overcurrent Protective Devices, and Disconnects
• • Chapter 12 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 12 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 12 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 12 Introduction
  • 12.1 Panelboards
  • 12.2 Overcurrent Protective Devices
  • 12.3 Circuit Breakers
  • 12.4 Fuses
  • 12.5 Disconnects
  • Chapter 12 Review
• Chapter 13 Lamps and Lighting
• • Chapter 13 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 13 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 13 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 13 Introduction
  • 13.1 Basics of Visible Light
  • 13.2 Wattage and Lumens
  • 13.3 LED Lamps
  • 13.4 Incandescent Lamps
  • 13.5 Fluorescent Lamps
  • 13.6 Classifications of Lighting
  • Chapter 13 Review
• Section 4 The National Electrical Code and Construction Basics
• • Section 4 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 14 The NEC: Purpose, Scope, and Navigation
• • Chapter 14 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 14 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 14 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 14 Introduction
  • 14.1 Creating and Revising the NEC
  • 14.2 Purpose and Scope of the NEC
  • 14.3 Enforcement of the NEC
  • 14.4 Chapter Arrangement of the NEC
  • 14.5 Article Structure and Formatting in the NEC
  • 14.6 Strategies for Navigating and Using the NEC
  • Chapter 14 Review
• Chapter 15 Print Reading and Estimating
• • Chapter 15 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 15 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 15 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 15 Introduction
  • 15.1 Blueprint Scaling
  • 15.2 Types of Scales
  • 15.3 Blueprint Layouts
  • 15.4 Electrical Plans and Symbols
  • 15.5 Estimating Project Costs Using Blueprints
  • Chapter 15 Review
• Chapter 16 Residential Framing
• • Chapter 16 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 16 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 16 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 16 Introduction
  • 16.1 Lumber Basics
  • 16.2 Framing Methods
  • 16.3 Framing Applications
  • Chapter 16 Review
• Part 2 House Wiring
• Section 5 House Wiring and the NEC
• • Section 5 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 17 Branch Circuit and Receptacle Requirements
• • Chapter 17 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 17 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 17 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 17 Introduction
  • 17.1 Branch Circuit Requirements
  • 17.2 Branch Circuit Conductor Sizing
  • 17.3 Calculating the Number of Branch Circuits
  • 17.4 Lighting Location Requirements
  • 17.5 Required Spacing for Receptacle Outlets
  • 17.6 Ground-Fault Circuit Protection Requirements
  • 17.7 Arc-Fault Circuit Protection Requirements
  • Chapter 17 Review
• Chapter 18 Ampacity Adjustments and Conductor Sizing
• • Chapter 18 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 18 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 18 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 18 Introduction
  • 18.1 Ampacity Adjustments
  • 18.2 Temperature Corrections to Ampacity Rating
  • 18.3 Ampacity Adjustments for More Than Three Current-Carrying Conductors
  • 18.4 Voltage Drop
  • 18.5 Calculating Voltage Drop
  • Chapter 18 Review
• Chapter 19 Service Calculations
• • Chapter 19 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 19 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 19 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 19 Introduction
  • 19.1 Connected Loads, Calculated Loads, and Demand Factors
  • 19.2 Methods of Calculation for New Dwellings
  • 19.3 Methods of Calculation for Existing Dwellings
  • Chapter 19 Review
• Section 6 Rough-In
• • Section 6 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 20 Temporary Power
• • Chapter 20 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 20 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 20 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 20 Introduction
  • 20.1 Requirements of Temporary Power
  • 20.2 Overhead Temporary Services
  • 20.3 Underground Temporary Services
  • Chapter 20 Review
• Chapter 21 Outlet Box Installation
• • Chapter 21 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 21 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 21 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 21 Introduction
  • 21.1 Box Installation
  • 21.2 Calculating Box Volume
  • 21.3 Calculating Box Fill
  • 21.4 Box Fill Calculation Examples
  • Chapter 21 Review
• Chapter 22 Switch Wiring Applications
• • Chapter 22 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 22 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 22 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 22 Introduction
  • 22.1 Switch Fundamentals
  • 22.2 Wiring Single-Pole, Three-Way, and Four-Way Switches
  • 22.3 Wiring Advanced Switch Applications
  • Chapter 22 Review
• Chapter 23 Conductor Routing and Installation
• • Chapter 23 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 23 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 23 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 23 Introduction
  • 23.1 Circuit Layout
  • 23.2 Installing and Securing Nonmetallic Cable
  • 23.3 Prepping Conductors for Device Installation
  • Chapter 23 Review
• Section 7 Service Installation
• • Section 7 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 24 Service Equipment
• • Chapter 24 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 24 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 24 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 24 Introduction
  • 24.1 Meter Socket and Service Disconnecting Means
  • 24.2 Service-Entrance Conductors and Feeder Conductors
  • 24.3 Three-Wire and Four-Wire Services
  • 24.4 System Grounding and Grounding Electrodes
  • Chapter 24 Review
• Chapter 25 Service Installation
• • Chapter 25 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 25 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 25 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 25 Introduction
  • 25.1 Service and Distribution Panelboard Locations
  • 25.2 Overhead Service Clearance Requirements
  • 25.3 Types of Overhead Services
  • 25.4 Underground Services
  • 25.5 Subpanels
  • 25.6 Grounding and Bonding
  • Chapter 25 Review
• Section 8 Finish and Trim
• • Section 8 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 26 Device and Appliance Finish and Trim
• • Chapter 26 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 26 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 26 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 26 Introduction
  • 26.1 Proper Device Terminations
  • 26.2 Switch Terminations
  • 26.3 Receptacle Terminations
  • 26.4 Device and Cover Plate Installation
  • 26.5 Major Appliances
  • Chapter 26 Review
• Chapter 27 Luminaire Finish and Trim
• • Chapter 27 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 27 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 27 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 27 Introduction
  • 27.1 Categories of Luminaires
  • 27.2 Recessed Luminaires
  • 27.3 Surface-Mounted Luminaires
  • 27.4 Track Lighting
  • 27.5 Installing Luminaires
  • Chapter 27 Review
• Chapter 28 Distribution Panel Finish and Trim
• • Chapter 28 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 28 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 28 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 28 Introduction
  • 28.1 Conductor Installation
  • 28.2 Circuit Breaker Selection
  • 28.3 Circuit Breaker Installation
  • 28.4 GFCI, AFCI, Dual-Purpose, and SPD Circuit Breakers
  • 28.5 Circuit Identification and Panel Labeling
  • Chapter 28 Review
• Chapter 29 Branch Circuit Testing and Troubleshooting
• • Chapter 29 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 29 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 29 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 29 Introduction
  • 29.1 Establish Electrical Power for the First Time
  • 29.2 Main Panelboard and Subpanel Voltage Testing
  • 29.3 Branch Circuit Troubleshooting
  • 29.4 Receptacle Testing
  • 29.5 Luminaire Testing and Troubleshooting
  • 29.6 Major Appliance Testing
  • Chapter 29 Review
• Section 9 Outdoor Circuits
• • Section 9 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 30 Outdoor Lights and Receptacles
• • Chapter 30 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 30 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 30 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 30 Introduction
  • 30.1 Outdoor Wiring Methods
  • 30.2 Exterior Conduits and Cables
  • 30.3 Calculating Expansion Fitting Requirements
  • 30.4 Outdoor Lighting
  • 30.5 Outdoor Receptacles
  • Chapter 30 Review
• Chapter 31 Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs
• • Chapter 31 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 31 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 31 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 31 Introduction
  • 31.1 General Requirements for Permanently Installed Swimming Pools
  • 31.2 Equipotential Bonding for Permanently Installed Swimming Pools
  • 31.3 Storable Pools
  • 31.4 Spas and Hot Tubs
  • 31.5 Hydromassage Bathtubs
  • Chapter 31 Review
• Section 10 Special Wiring Applications
• • Section 10 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 32 Voice, Data, and Video
• • Chapter 32 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 32 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 32 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 32 Introduction
  • 32.1 Residential Communications Systems
  • 32.2 Cables, Connections, and Tools
  • 32.3 Rough-In Installation
  • 32.4 Old Work Installations
  • 32.5 Testing Cables and Connections
  • Chapter 32 Review
• Chapter 33 Signaling Devices
• • Chapter 33 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 33 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 33 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 33 Introduction
  • 33.1 Life Safety Signaling Devices
  • 33.2 Door and Security Signaling Devices
  • 33.3 Remote Control Signaling Devices
  • Chapter 33 Review
• Chapter 34 Solar Photovoltaic Systems
• • Chapter 34 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 34 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 34 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 34 Introduction
  • 34.1 Solar Photovoltaic System Types and Basic Components
  • 34.2 PV Power Conversion Equipment and Mounting
  • 34.3 PV System Design
  • 34.4 PV System Integration
  • 34.5 Installing Rooftop PV Systems
  • 34.6 Installing Pole-Mounted and Ground-Mounted PV Systems
  • 34.7 Wiring Connections into Residential Power Systems
  • Chapter 34 Review
• Chapter 35 Garage Wiring and Electric Vehicle Charging Power
• • Chapter 35 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 35 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 35 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 35 Introduction
  • 35.1 Attached and Detached Garages and Outbuildings
  • 35.2 Required Receptacle Outlets for Detached Garages
  • 35.3 Supplying Power for Detached Garages, Accessory Structures, or Outbuildings
  • 35.4 Fire-Rated Construction
  • 35.5 Required Lighting and Receptacle Outlets for Attached Garages
  • 35.6 Power Circuits for Workshops or Vehicle Maintenance
  • 35.7 Electric Vehicle Charging Outlets
  • 35.8 Calculating Loads for Garage Power
  • Chapter 35 Review
• Chapter 36 Standby Power Systems
• • Chapter 36 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 36 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 36 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 36 Introduction
  • 36.1 Types of Standby Power Systems
  • 36.2 Sizing Standby Power Systems
  • 36.3 Standby Power Connections
  • 36.4 Planning and Site Preparation for Permanently Installed Generators
  • 36.5 Installation of Permanently Installed Generators
  • 36.6 Installation of Portable Generators
  • 36.7 Installation of Battery-Based Inverters
  • Chapter 36 Review
• Section 11 Retrofitting, Service, and Repair
• • Section 11 What’s Ahead?
• Chapter 37 Troubleshooting Basics
• • Chapter 37 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 37 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 37 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 37 Introduction
  • 37.1 The Troubleshooting Process
  • 37.2 Overloads
  • 37.3 Open Circuits
  • 37.4 Short Circuits and Ground Faults
  • 37.5 Undervoltage and Overvoltage Conditions
  • 37.6 Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters
  • Chapter 37 Review
• Chapter 38 Replacing and Adding Devices and Luminaires
• • Chapter 38 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 38 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 38 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 38 Introduction
  • 38.1 Replacing Existing Receptacle Devices
  • 38.2 Installing a New Receptacle Outlet Location
  • 38.3 Replacing Existing Luminaires
  • 38.4 Adding New Luminaires
  • Chapter 38 Review
• Chapter 39 Adding a Circuit
• • Chapter 39 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 39 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 39 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 39 Introduction
  • 39.1 Fishing Conductors
  • 39.2 Installing Circuit Breakers
  • 39.3 Subpanels
  • Chapter 39 Review
• Chapter 40 Service Upgrades
• • Chapter 40 Sparking Discussion
  • Chapter 40 Learning Outcomes
  • Chapter 40 Technical Terms
  • Chapter 40 Introduction
  • 40.1 Electrical Service Upgrades
  • 40.2 Service Equipment Locations
  • 40.3 Installation Practices
  • 40.4 Final Connections
  • Chapter 40 Review
• Glossary
• Index
• Index of NEC References
• • NEC Articles
  • NEC Sections
  • NEC Tables