Not too long ago, most newly constructed homes and buildings were wired with little more than alternating current (AC) electrical power lines, a few phone lines, and a few TV cables. Times have changed, and we’ve come a long way, baby.

Previously, low-voltage communication cabling was installed for a broad range of smart home systems. Of course, new technology still, for the most part, requires connection to the same AC power lines. Still, several unique and particular requirements must be met to meet the demand for smart homes and new, innovative technology.

Although most home automation enthusiasts install home automation in existing homes, many new construction homes are wired for home automation. Pre-planning during a new home construction can save you a lot of extra work.

One of the first things to have your electrical contractor do is run neutral wires to all junction boxes. Although most electricians do this as a matter of professional practice, making your preference known ensures you always have a neutral wire available. Neutral wires are required for most powerline home automation devices.

Next, request deep junction boxes. Deeper junction boxes will give you more room to work, accommodate deeper in-wall devices, and make your life much easier.

Also, have your electrical contractor install (and wire) extra junction boxes. If you don’t have a use for them at first, cover them with a faceplate. It is much easier to install extra junction boxes during the construction phase than to come back later and do it.

Install cable conduits everywhere you even remotely anticipate a need for wires (of any kind). Cable conduits are separate from electrical conduits and are used to run speaker wires, video cables, network cables, etc. Install conduits in walls even if you don’t anticipate using them immediately.

Again, it’s a lot easier to install a piece of the conduit during construction than to fish speaker wire through a wall after the house is built.

Wiring Closets

Build a small, centrally located closet for storing patch panels, distribution panels, media servers, etc. Ensure your wiring closet is big enough to accommodate a rack with extra room for moving around. Ensure you install ample cable conduits in this room because much of your wiring will terminate here.

Speakers

Even if you aren’t installing a whole house audio system initially, you should plan for it in the future and wire every room for in-ceiling or in-wall speakers. At some point in the future, you will want to add whole-house audio to your home. 

Terminate your conduits into junction boxes, cover them with faceplates, and forget about them until you need them. Install at least one conduit and junction box at eye level in each room to accommodate a touch panel.

Source: lifewire.com