Types of Wiring in a House: Importance, Comparison, Costs and Safety Tips

Electrical wires are constructed from copper or aluminium. These conductive metals are cautiously insulated to deliver electricity to various corners of our home. When it comes to household wiring, several options are available. So, before you install new wiring, make sure to understand the basics of the different types of wiring in a house so that you can choose the right one.

Importance of Choosing the Right Wiring

If there is a disruption to the normal flow of electricity, your modern appliances will stop working properly. As a matter of fact, a complex web of electrical wires is behind every switch and socket. Therefore, it is necessary to learn about the different types of electrical wiring in a house.

Types of Wiring in a House

The right type of electric circuit in a house can either future-proof someone’s space or restrict smarter wiring decisions later on. Therefore, it is recommended not to cut corners on wiring. Some common wiring types frequently used are

1. Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube style is a traditional electrical wiring method that uses porcelain knobs and tubes to support and protect the wires. While this system usually requires less maintenance over time, many choose to replace it for better security and reliability.

Key Features

• Uses separate wires for hot and neutral connections
• Wires are supported by ceramic knobs and tubes, offering better durability
• Air insulation provides natural cooling

Advantages

• Easy to inspect and repair
• Long-lasting, if properly maintained
• Efficiently controls the risk of overheating

Disadvantages

• Lacks grounding protection
• Not compatible with various modern appliances
• Difficult to upgrade

Suitable For 

Mostly used in old houses or restoration projects

2. Casing and Capping Wiring

If you are in favour of budget-friendly types of wiring systems in houses, the casing and capping structure can be a good alternative. In this system, the wires run inside wooden or PVC casings, which gives a clear appearance and is easy to repair.

Key Features

• Wires are enclosed in PVC or wooden casing
• Capping covers wires securely, reducing accident chances
• These are available in multiple colours and finishes

Advantages

• Installation is budget-friendly 
• Gives a neat and organised appearance
• Electricians can repair the network without any wall damage

Disadvantages

• Not the best option for heat or moisture resistance
• May deteriorate in humid surroundings
• Requires frequent maintenance 

Suitable For 

Decent option for buyers looking for affordable types of house wiring in India.

3. Conduit Wiring

One of the most frequently used types of connections in house wiring, the conduit wiring structure is either surface-mounted or concealed inside walls. They offer superior insulation and are renowned for their fire-resistant properties.

Key Features

• Cables protect the wires inside metal or plastic conduits
• Structures can be concealed or surface-mounted
• Provides strong mechanical protection

Advantages

• These are highly durable and long-lasting 
• Offers excellent protection against fire hazards
• Can be installed for both indoor and outdoor power supply

Disadvantages

• Expensive installation cost
• Difficult to bring modifications once concealed
• Time-consuming setup 

Suitable For 

Long-term and modern residential or commercial buildings

4. Low Voltage Wiring

Low-voltage wiring suits devices or appliances that require lower voltage for operation, such as telephones, doorbells, or smartphone chargers. They are very safe to handle and can be easily placed inside conduits or raceways.

Key Features

• Carries voltage under 50V
• Particularly used for communication systems, security and control devices
• Ideal with raceways or conduits

Advantages

• Very safe for installers and users
• Reduces energy consumption significantly
• Great for smart applications

Disadvantages

• Limited power transmission capacity
• Not suitable for heavy electrical loads
• Requires separate routing from main circuits

Suitable For 

Compatible with smart devices, alarms, and low-power electronics

5. Cleat Wiring 

Insulated wires are used in cleat wiring with porcelain, wood, or plastic cleats. You can mostly find them in a temporary setup, like construction sites, and are generally avoided in permanent domestic house wiring.

Key Features

• Uses cleats made of porcelain or plastic
• Wires are mounted temporarily on the walls
• Commonly used for short-term power supply

Advantages

• Known for simple and quick installation
• The wires are easy to remove or replace
• Needs minimal material and labour cost

Disadvantages

• Not recommended for permanent setups
• Cleat wiring offers poor mechanical protection
• Aesthetic appeal is very low

Suitable For 

Temporary needs like a workshop or a construction site

Factors to Consider Before Choosing Wiring

You can ensure that your house wiring meets standards for efficiency and safety by addressing these 5 factors

• Best Quality Material: Always consider using electrical wires made of high-grade copper or aluminium for better conductivity and durability. Best-quality materials reduce heat generation, prevent short circuits, and ensure long-lasting, safe electrical performance.
• Insulation Type: It is essential to choose insulation that is heat-resistant and moisture-proof to safeguard the residents against electric shocks and fire hazards. PVC or XLPE insulation types provide excellent safety, especially in humid or high-temperature environments.
• Wire Gauge and Size: Selecting the correct wire gauge ensures optimal current flow without any energy loss or overheating. Undersized wires can overload circuits, while oversized ones increase electricity costs unnecessarily.
• Compliance and Standards: Ensure your electrical setup follows ISI and BIS standards for safety and efficiency. Proper compliance guarantees that your home wiring meets approved specifications and passes professional inspection easily.
• Flexibility and Strength: Different types of wiring in a building require wires with varying tensile strength. Thus, you should select wires that offer flexibility without compromising strength. It will facilitate easier installation and prevent breakage during bending. 

Other Modern Wiring Options 

Nowadays, you can find even more advanced types of cables used in a household setup. While not overly costly, these setups enhance safety and lifespan by individually sheathing each wire, elevating the circuit's overall wiring standards. Here are some options:

• PVC Insulated Wiring: These are very common in modern homes as their PVC coating not only prevents electric shocks but also resists moisture and chemical corrosion.
• Non-Metallic Sheathed Cable (NM Cable): This type of wiring combines multiple conductors under a plastic sheath. Its design is ideal for dry indoor spaces like walls and ceilings.
• Armoured Cable: With a tough metal casing around the wires, armoured cables are perfect when you need extra protection against physical damage, especially in garages or outdoor areas.
• Underground Feeder (UF) Cable: UF cables are perfect for garden lights or sheds as they can be buried without conduit due to their moisture-resistant properties. 
• Smart Wiring: This modern setup integrates data, power, and communication lines into a single system, letting you control lighting, security, and entertainment from your smartphone or voice assistant.

Comparison Table: Types of Wiring

Check the table below to identify which types of wiring in a house best suit your needs. 

Wiring Type	Safety	Longevity	Versatility	Ideal Choice For
Knob and Tube Wiring	Moderate safety and not the best choice for high electrical loads	Long-lasting if well-maintained	Low due to limited compatibility with new-age appliances	Restoration projects
Casing and Capping Wiring	Basic as they are prone to damage in humid or hot environments	Requires periodic maintenance	Good, as they are easy to remove and replace	Budget-friendly projects
Conduit Wiring	Excellent due to strong insulation and fire resistance	Durable and damage-resistant	Suitable for both indoors and outdoors	Modern, long-term residential or commercial use
Low Voltage Wiring	Very safe and ideal for saving electricity costs	Long-lasting with minimal wear	Limited versatility, as these can be used with low-power devices	Smart homes
Cleat Wiring	Low safety as the wires are exposed to the surroundings	Not designed for longevity	Limited, as these are ideal for temporary setups	Temporary power supply

Which Wiring is Best for Homes Today?

Conduit wiring is frequently regarded as the ideal option for contemporary residences. It gives excellent safety, toughness, and versatility since the wires are housed in protective metal or plastic conduits that help prevent fire hazards and mechanical damage. 

While the installation costs can be on the higher side, these installations are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, making them much more desirable for today’s residential and commercial buildings.

Cost of House Wiring in India

House wiring costs in India comprise typical material prices along with installation charges. Here is a brief breakdown with approximate costs:

Wiring Type	Approximate Cost Range (₹ per metres or per point)
Knob and Tube Wiring	₹220/ metre (cable only), labour cost varies
Casing and Capping Wiring	₹20 - ₹90/ metre (material), ₹38/ point + labour cost
Conduit Wiring	₹10 - ₹140/ metre (PVC/rigid conduit), ₹20 - ₹60/ labour (per metre)
Low Voltage Wiring	₹45 - ₹140/ metre (cable), ₹300 - ₹400/ point (harness assembly)
Cleat Wiring	₹35 - ₹150/ cleat (hardware), labour cost is cheap

Safety Tips for Home Wiring

Electrical wiring is the hidden backbone of every home. However, without proper safety precautions, it can pose serious risks. Here are some safety tips you must follow:

• Always use ISI-certified wires with proper insulation to prevent overheating, short circuits, and electrical fires.
• Ensure that the technicians correctly choose the wire gauge by calculating the appliance load. Undersized wires can overheat and cause hazards.
• Installers must not overlook loose joints and poor splicing. Well-soldered connections reduce the risk of arcing and slow-burning electrical fires.
• Install safety devices like Miniature Circuit Breakers (MCBs) and Residual Current Circuit Breakers (RCCBs) for automatic electrical fault protection.

How NoBroker Can Help with Electrician Services?

All homeowners must know the kind of wiring that is installed in their homes. Selecting the appropriate types of wiring in a house will not only increase electrical safety and efficiency but also long-term reliability. In simple words, it makes your home adaptable to meet future power and smart system needs.

Frequently Asked Questions