I'm helping a friend with his house and have a few things I don't fully understand...

In his old home, most of the electrical wiring was updated in the late 90's.

- Most of the basement and attic wiring is all run through metal conduit, is this necessary?
- Is Romex 12-2 a good basic wire to be used for most homes? (running power to lights, outlets, w/d, etc.. )
- I noticed one or two runs of the metal conduit that only have a black and white wire inside them. Although the wires appear newer, there is no visible ground wire. Is this a hazard/problem? What should be done about it?

Quote:

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Originally Posted by tgfilms

- Most of the basement and attic wiring is all run through metal conduit, is this necessary?

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Depends on the area. Some places do require conduit throughout the house.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by tgfilms

- Is Romex 12-2 a good basic wire to be used for most homes? (running power to lights, outlets, w/d, etc..)

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Depends on the circuit. I use 14 for lighting circuits in a home. Some circuits require #12, such as kitchen receptacles, laundry receptacles, bathroom receptacles. A gas dryer could use 12/2, but an electric would require 10/3.
Also, some places do require conduit throughout the house.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by tgfilms

- I noticed one or two runs of the metal conduit that only have a black and white wire inside them. Although the wires appear newer, there is no visible ground wire. Is this a hazard/problem? What should be done about it?

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If the conduit is all metallic and made up tight it can serve as the grounding means.


If you are not sure of such basic things I would be careful helping someone, especially if they know less than you. This could get you in some hot water later on.