INSTITUTION: DEDAN KIMATHI UNIVERSITY OF

TECHNOLOGY
DEPARTMENT: CIVIL ENGINEERING
TITLE: DOMESTIC WIRING ON POWER WIRING
DATE:14th February 2025

AIM
The aim of the experiment is to ensure safe distribution of electricity from the
main power supply to various points within a home allowing for the operation of
electrical appliances
INTRODUCTION
Domestic power wiring involves setting up the electrical system in a home to
ensure safe and efficient distribution of electricity.
In domestic power wiring one can connect he switches, shower heads, electric
bells, cooking sockets and many more.
THEORY
Safely distribution of electrical power throughout a home utilizing a system of
conductors connected to a power source routed through circuit breakers within
distribution board and reaching the individual appliances and light fixtures all
while adhering to strict safety codes and standards ensuring proper earthing and
load balancing across different circuits.
The sockets can be connected either in ring or radial method:
Ring Circuit: This type of circuit forms a loop, allowing current to travel in both
directions. It can supply power to multiple sockets and is often used in domestic
settings for its efficiency in distributing electricity.
Radial Circuit: In contrast, a radial circuit runs from the consumer unit to each
socket in a straight line. Once it reaches the last socket, the cable ends, making it
suitable for smaller areas. Radial circuits are considered safer and are commonly
used in kitchens and bathrooms.
Understanding these differences is crucial for ensuring safe and effective electrical
installation.
Power wiring can be used for :
a. Appliances:This include household appliances such as refrigerators, air
coinditioners, washing machines, and other electrical devices
b. Security systems: Home security systems including cameras, alarms, and
motion detectors can be connected.
c. Outlets and switches: These are points where electrical devices can be
plugged in or controlled.

Tools
Screw driver (flat and star)
Tack nails
Ball peen hammer
Hacksaw
Spirit level
Steel rule
Screw nail
Materials
CCU
Round junction box
Trunking
Buckle clips
Cable wires (live, neutral, earth)
Sockets
PROCEDURE
 Preparation and Safety Measures The main power supply was switched off
before starting any electrical work. All required tools and materials were
gathered and counter checked to be acurrate.
 Markings were done by accurate measurements using a ruler .
 The CCU was mounted securely at the designated position. whereby the
main supply connection (live, neutral, and earth) was properly identified
and connected to the terminals.
 A spirit level was used to mark the alignment of the trunking, the trunking
was cut to the required lengths using a hacksaw after it was cut at a given
angles of 90 and 45 degrees.it was then fixed along the marked paths using
screw nails and buckle clips. The cable wires (live, neutral, and earth) were
laid inside the trunking.
 The first switch socket was positioned at the designated point.The socket
base was secured to the wall using screw nails.The live, neutral, and earth
wires were connected to their respective terminals.
 The wiring was extended from the first switch socket to the round junction
box The wires were connected inside the junction box, ensuring proper
insulation.
 From the junction box, two connections were branched out:
One branch to another switch socket.
Another branch to two additional switch sockets.

 For each socket :The cable wires were run through the trunking.The sockets
were secured with screw nails. The live, neutral, and earth wires were
connected to the appropriate terminals. The socket faceplates were
attached securely.
 All connections were double-checked to ensure there were no loose wires.
All trunking covers were secured in place. The power supply was turned on,
and each socket was tested with a charger connected to a phone.
 It was verified that all sockets were functioning correctly.

DISCUSSION
RADIAL CONNECTION
A radial circuit connects each socket directly to the distribution board (fuse box)
with a single cable. This configuration is simple and cost-effective, making it ideal
for smaller rooms with lower power demands.
Advantages:
1. Simplicity and Cost-Effectiveness: Radial circuits are easy to install and require
fewer materials.
2. Easier Fault Detection: If a fault occurs, only the affected part of the circuit is
affected, making it easier to identify and fix the problem.
3. Suitable for Low Power Loads: Radial circuits are ideal for rooms like bedrooms
or living rooms where fewer outlets and appliances are used.

Disadvantages:
1. Limited Capacity: Radial circuits can only support a limited number of outlets
and are prone to overloading if too many devices are plugged in.
2. No Redundancy: Unlike ring circuits, a radial circuit does not provide backup
power if a cable is damaged, making it less resilient.
3. Voltage Drop: In long circuits, voltage drop can occur, reducing the performance
of appliances.
Ring Circuit
A ring circuit forms a loop, where the cable runs from the distribution board to
the first socket, continues to other sockets, and then loops back to the board. This
method provides an alternative path for the current, which increases safety and
reliability.
Advantages:
1. Increased Capacity: A ring circuit can support more sockets and a higher load
compared to a radial circuit because the power is distributed through two paths.
2. Redundancy: If one part of the cable is damaged, the current can still flow
through the other path, ensuring that the circuit remains live.
3. More Flexible: Ring circuits are more flexible in terms of adding more outlets or
extending the circuit, making them ideal for larger homes or areas with higher
power demand.

Disadvantages:
1. Complexity: Ring circuits are more complex to install, requiring careful
planning and accurate wiring to ensure proper functionality.
2. 2. Higher Cost: More cable is needed, and the installation process is
typically more labor-intensive, increasing overall cost.
3. Troubleshooting Challenges: If a fault occurs, it may be harder to locate, as
both paths could be affected.

Conclusion
Radial circuits are ideal for smaller areas with lower power demands, offering
simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and easier fault detection. However, they are limited
in capacity and lack redundancy, which can be a disadvantage for larger
installations or high-power areas.

Ring circuits are better suited for larger homes or areas with higher electrical
demands due to their increased capacity, redundancy, and better load
distribution.Even though they are more complex and costly to install, they offer
enhanced safety and flexibility, especially in households with many appliances.

References
Electrical installation work by Brian Scaddan
Electrical installation design guide www.studocu.com