Understanding the Electrical Plan Included With Our Plans

Below is an example of the electrical legend found on most of our Classic Vintage House plans.

To clarify these symbols for you, here are detailed explanations for each one:

 

	This symbol represents a standard 110-volt wall receptacle, typically placed 6 feet apart throughout the house to comply with most building codes.
	This symbol indicates a standard 220-volt wall receptacle, typically used for major appliances like ranges, dryers, and heaters.
	This symbol stands for a Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) receptacle, typically used when an outlet is located within 6 feet of a sink or water source. This type of outlet automatically cuts off power if a ground fault is detected.
	This symbol represents a standard ceiling-mounted light fixture unless otherwise specified next to the symbol on the plan.
	This symbol denotes an exterior light fixture, which can be either wall-mounted or ceiling-mounted.
	This symbol signifies a Heated & Ventilating Light (HVL) fixture for bathrooms. Some homes may instead have just a Vent Light (VL).
	This symbol represents a recessed light fixture designed for special lighting in the ceiling. “Recessed” means that the fixture is flush with or set into the ceiling.
	This symbol represents exterior lighting, which can also include adjustable lamp lighting for the outside of the home.
	This symbol indicates a wall-mounted cable television jack.
	This symbol stands for a standard wall-mounted light switch. If it were a 3-way switch, meaning two or more switches control the same light fixture, there would be a number 3 next to the symbol.
	This symbol represents an exterior electrical meter mounted on the house. Generally, the electrical breaker or service box should be within 12 feet of the meter and positioned for easy access by local utility board personnel.
	This symbol indicates a smoke detector. Most fire codes require the installation of smoke detectors in new homes. Be sure to check with your local codes or building inspector for specific requirements.
	This symbol represents a telephone jack, which is typically mounted at the same height as wall receptacles. If it is intended for a wall-mounted phone, this should be noted on the plan.

Electrical Legends can vary between designers. Here’s an example from another designer, where you will notice some commonalities.

Let’s examine a sample plan. Once we understand the symbols, we’ll be able to easily interpret the details of the plan.

Once we understand the meanings of these symbols, interpreting the electrical section of the plan becomes quite straightforward. By familiarizing ourselves with the symbols, we can quickly and easily decipher the details in the electrical plan.

Take a look at the Living Room section in the drawing, and you’ll understand why symbols are preferred over labels. Symbols keep the plan clean and uncluttered, allowing for easy interpretation of the electrical layout.

Electrical Symbols in the Living Room:

• 110 Wall Receptacles
• Light Switches (single and 3-way)
• Dashed Arcs representing wiring direction
• Light Fixture
• Exterior Light Fixture
• Smoke Detector
• Telephone Jacks
• Cable Television Jack

Using symbols instead of labels leaves more room for other important details on the plan, making it easier to understand and navigate.

In the bathrooms, we observe a few electrical items in the image to the right. In the Main Bathroom, there’s a light fixture with the letters HVL inside it. This stands for Heat Vent Light, which not only illuminates the bathroom but also provides extra heat and ventilation. In the Half Bath, the light fixture has the initials VL, indicating a Vented Light.

Additionally, you’ll notice that the VL fixture has two wires corresponding to its two functions, while the HVL fixture has three wires for its three functions. Essentially, the number of functions of a fixture is represented by the corresponding number of broken line arcs in the diagram.

If you look at the wall receptacle, you’ll see a Ground Fault circuit, also known as a GFI/GFCI. A GFI circuit will interrupt the electricity if any resistance is detected, preventing electrocution if the circuit is touched while wet.

On the left side, you’ll see a symbol outside the Utility Room indicating the meter base location. Behind it, in the darkened area, is the circuit panel, marked as a 200 amp service box.

Notice the GFI circuits near the washer and around the sink. The general rule is to place a GFI within 6 feet of a water source if an outlet is required.

The circle labeled W.H. stands for the water heater. If it’s a gas heater, this is usually specified; if electric, only the circle with initials is shown. Typically, only a symbol for a water heater is used to indicate its wiring.

For the dishwasher, only a symbol is used, with the GFI receptacle generally placed nearby. The dryer and range are represented by a 220-volt receptacle symbol, a circle with three lines.

The rest of the house follows standard electrical layouts, which can be easily understood with careful study.