Your home’s wiring is a crucial decision in meeting tomorrow’s needs. According to recent data, approximately mostly homes will have installed rooftop solar systems by January 2025 under the government’s scheme. Global solar PV capacity additions surged to a record 450 GW in 2023 and further to 600 GW in 2024, bringing the total cumulative global capacity to over 2.25 TW by 2024. The domestic smart home market is also growing, estimated to be worth billions of dollars by 2024, making it clear that smart devices are poised to become a part of your everyday life.
What’s Important When Thinking for the Future
Your goal should be to ensure your wiring is secure, flexible, and easy to upgrade. Making current decisions reduces future costs and hassles. For example, hiding additional power lines today will make it easier to add a new inverter or solar inverter tomorrow.
Preparing for Solar Panels
The key elements you need for a solar installation in your home are adequate rooftop space, cable trays leading to the panels, and storage space for the solar inverter. Determine the location of net metering and a protective disconnect switch with the solar system in advance. Recent data shows that domestic rooftop solar adoption is increasing, so it’s wise to include solar-friendly wiring routes and dedicated circuits.
CCTV and Security Systems
Your security camera system will connect to a DVR/NVR, so dedicated routing of network cables and power is essential. Install waterproof power sockets and network cable protection at external points for the cameras. For example, if you plan to add 8 cameras later, route at least 8 network pipes or cables in advance to avoid having to break up tiles next time.
Inverter and Battery Power Backup
If power outages are common in your area, consider the location of the inverter and battery in advance. Consider battery ventilation, a load-bearing platform, and cable thickness. Recent growth in the inverter market indicates that more homes will require backup, so your main switchboard should have reserved ACB/MCB slots and appropriate AC/DC connectors.
Arrangements for a Generator
If you plan to install a generator for heavy loads, it is a good idea to have separate circuits and auto-switch-over connections in advance. Consider the generator’s fuel storage and noise, placing it away from the house and in a secure location. Small generators, ranging from hundreds of watts to large generators, will require separate breakers and circuits, so future load assessment is essential in planning.
Smart Lighting and Automation
If you intend to install smart lighting, consider including double switch points and new communication wiring (such as CAT6 or fiber-optic, where necessary). Plan sensitive ground and signal return paths for smart dimming, zone control, and sensors. If you add a voice assistant or smart home hub in the future, having piping and a central networking panel will make things easier.
Internet and Dish TV
High-speed internet has become essential for smart homes. So, don’t forget to install internet connectivity cables at the right spots where you can place your router and connect other home gadgets. Cable TV or dish TV wiring is also important in modern housing. If you have a television, make sure to install antenna cables as well.
Gadgets and Appliances
Your daily life depends on many small and large appliances. In the kitchen, set up separate circuits for the microwave, water heater, and refrigerator. Add adequate power outlets and USB charging points in the workstation and TV area. For example, if you have a home office, having a dedicated UPS line is very helpful.
Safety, Earthing, and Surge Protection
Your first priority is safety. Strong earthing, RCD/ELCB, and surge protection devices should be installed in advance. To avoid electric shock and equipment damage, consider spike protectors and surge protectors. Electrical safety is not just a rule of thumb; it’s about family safety.
Cable Sizing, Trunking, and Labeling
Have your electrician ensure accurate electric wire sizes to avoid heat and overload problems. Leave extra space in trunking and conduit so that new lines can be easily installed in the future. Clearly labeling each circuit reduces future hassles.
Some More Important Considerations for the Future
Consider the location of your smart meter, watt-and-energy monitoring, and internet connectivity. Have adequate outlets both indoors and outdoors. Plan for LEDs and smart temperature controls for energy efficiency. If you later switch to electric vehicles, it’s beneficial to prepare for an EV charging point in the garage.
Your home should be a combination of today’s needs and tomorrow’s. A little extra effort and thought in wiring paves the way for affordable and convenient upgrades today. For example, if you want to add solar, battery, and smart lighting someday, having pre-organized wiring will make the job easier and cheaper. Share a detailed plan with your electrician and have small additions made today based on future needs.
