A tutorial on running wires through the wall

[brettallica]

You're a cable/wire Nazi, just like I am!

I believe they have 12-step programs for people like us.

[phantompwr]

Originally Posted by brettallica

You're a cable/wire Nazi, just like I am!

I believe they have 12-step programs for people like us.

Well I saw some people posting comments on some bad wire management in people's HT galleries, and thought rather than just criticize, I could actually contribute something positive, plus I am starved for attention

[Moefiz]

Very nice....I like how you lay everything out...

especially your disclaimer....we know who not to call if we burn the house down

[DrinkMore]

Very nice write up. I am going to head out to Lowes here shortly and see if they have all the bits and pieces I need to do this. I have a credit so it would be good.

Question - I am under the assumption (we know how that goes) that like you said, you can not run the power cable in the wall. However, what happens if your wall is open on the opposite side? Drywall only on one side, open and readily accessible on the other side (under a stair well)?

[phantompwr]

I haven't actually read the codes, and they may vary by locale, but my guess is that wouldn't be a big deal. I think it is more running the power cord through the enclosed space with the insulation, other wires, etc. that is the issue. My interior walls don't have any insulation which made me feel that much more okay about running mine through the walls anyway.
Its probably not a big deal, I'm sure a lot of people do it, I just wanted to be clear that it is a risk, although a very small one.

[DrinkMore]

Originally Posted by phantompwr

I haven't actually read the codes, and they may vary by locale, but my guess is that wouldn't be a big deal. I think it is more running the power cord through the enclosed space with the insulation, other wires, etc. that is the issue. My interior walls don't have any insulation which made me feel that much more okay about running mine through the walls anyway.
Its probably not a big deal, I'm sure a lot of people do it, I just wanted to be clear that it is a risk, although a very small one.

Thanks for the info. None of our interior walls have insulation in them either. I will probably just run the power cable behind the wall. Don't see an issue with it. I really don't want to put in an outlet up top.

[mnfish]

Unless the power cord is CL rated and most are not it does go against code in most locales to run the tv power cord in the wall. It's high voltage. All the other cables are low voltage. If you were to ever have a house fire and it was found out that the power cord in the wall was at fault the insurance company may not cover it. We are told in the Best Buy world not to EVER recommend putting the cord in the wall. If the customer wants to do that when we leave that is up to him/her. But we NEVER EVER do it for them.

BTW...nice job in the installation. This is a pretty common way to put cables in the wall in the Best Buy/Geek Squad Installation (GSI) world.

[Johk]

Originally Posted by DrinkMore

Thanks for the info. None of our interior walls have insulation in them either. I will probably just run the power cable behind the wall. Don't see an issue with it. I really don't want to put in an outlet up top.

One solution for this, is the Powerbridge. The great thing about it is that it lets you use your power conditioner/surge suppressor.