Security & Electrical Prep

Dec 15, 2000

9 December 2000
Today I met with Wally Sims of Safe and Sound Security in Norcross, Georgia. We decided that we should have our alarm system upgraded before the basement construction begins since it will be much cheaper if we do it now. We also discussed the possibility of whole house audio and automation integration. We are going to decide on just what to do over the next few weeks. Whatever the case, I will probably have the entire house wired before closing up the walls and ceilings in the basement.
15 December 2000
The electrical panel move yesterday went smoothly and the Wise Electric guys did a nice job. As it turned out, only four wires had to be extended. They also rewired the runs from the panel to the outdoor A/C units, the cook top, and the ovens to eliminate some inconvenient junction boxes. Apparently you can't have electrical junction boxes that are inaccessible (i.e., inside drywall walls or ceilings).
We also took the opportunity to add a 60 amp sub-panel with 20 breaker spaces next to the relocated main panel. This should provide an adequate number of circuits for the basement and theater. This essentially completes the preparatory electrical work. The actual basement wiring and rewiring will be done by Impressive Improvements. I plan to to the low voltage wiring myself.
As expected, the panel move passed the county electrical inspection. I had the permit and inspection done to make sure I protected myself from any future liability or insurance problems.
Electrical panel photos: Before (as viewed from the back of the future theater) and after (located on the right wall of the future theater near the front).