Electrical Panel Is In

Serious progress was made on the electrical wiring this week. The electrical panel, switch boxes and canned lighting have all been installed.
You can click on any image to enlarge.

- Carol Williams

Lots Of Electrical Decisions

Wayne & Susan braved the cold and drove over to meet with the builder and electrician today. It was a beautiful sunny day, but quite cold. This picture is the view west out the front window. It'll look so much better when all the construction in the neighborhood is done... and the port-a-potty is removed!

They spent at least 3 hours going from room to room, identifying where the light switches, overhead fan switches, and electrical outlets should be placed.

They also spent an additional couple of hours with the builder, Rob Cannon, discussing details regarding the fireplace, entry walls, cable, phone, internet, and bath showers.

Wayne says the windows should be in before their next visit and probably tevek and thermal wrap. Much of the plumbing is done. Electrical, HVAC, and rest of the plumbing should all be done. Rob is hoping to start drywall in a couple of weeks.

Here are some additional comments by Wayne, based on the most recent visit:
"A few things on decisions made on the electrical that are good to know for you and potential home builders. The pool especially with heater and automatic electric cover; as well as, normal equipment will require around 150 amps of power if under full load. The service panel was increased from 400 amp to 600 amp with separate 200 amp weather panel to be installed outside near pool equipment.

Electrical center was established in the garage that will have transformers for outside lighting, sprinkler controls, and timers for exterior lighting and interior accent low voltage lighting.

I added a dedicated 20 amp circuit in addition to standard outlets in den for computer equipment. The wiring size was increased from standard 14-2 to 12-2 in order to carry more load and have ability to run 20 amp circuits rather than 15 amp.

We tried to stay with switch outlets with no more than a 2 gang box as this is judged cleaner more appealing look and less confusing to people although we did break down and use one 3 gang switch box in the nook. The exterior solar shades were a challenge with wireless controls in order to incorporate safety switches; as well as, wind and sun sensors. The electrician had to do a bit of internet research on this but the challenge was overcome with determination and knowledge.

We used a motion detector in the walk in closet and hinge switches in the other closets and pantry so lights would come on and go off easily and efficiently. Yes, we or I even decided to have lights put in the attic and the crawl space under the home as there are many systems in these areas that need attention over time".

Wayne

The Roof Is On

A spill on the ice has slowed me down on getting this post done. Last Monday, I took this picture of the new roof... completed none too soon considering the weather and impending forecasts.

Here is an earlier communication from Wayne on November 29th:
I talked with Rob and Greg the HVAC person. We went over system and agreed on the HVAC System with a some upgrading. Upgrade will add $$$ over the typical system for a home of this size but we wanted some items that were very important to us and will add comfort and make a healthier home.

Upgrades:
15 Seer High Efficiency System
Digital Pro Thermostat w/Outside Air Temperature
Frigidaire ERV ( Fresh Air w/Energy Recovery )
Hepa Filtration w/digital remote control
Steam Humidifier
Electronic Air Cleaner
All metal supply and return air ducts
5 extra exhaust air ducts to ERV

Fresh air will be brought into home constantly and stale air will be exhausted. The fresh air will be filtered preheated or cooled and then distributed throughout home. The bath fans will be eliminated and the heated air from showers will also be pushed through the ERV and distributed back into the system as well in conserving energy and balancing the system.

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And, here is a note from Wayne, after their trek to Wenatchee on Sunday (Dec. 10th).

"Oh what fun. A run through the snow. Compact snow & ice from Cle Elm to the Big Y. Even following snow plows for about 15 minutes on Snoqualmie it was a 2 hour 15 minute drive. Not a lot of traffic and steady running that I would take any day over heavy traffic.

Home is looking good. We really like the entry. Roof color is outstanding of course in my opinion. Looking up at the thermal wrap is exciting and we are looking forward to the next trip over next Sunday. Appointment to meet with Rob and electrician at 11:00". -Wayne

Watch for ongoing updates. I think my back is on the mend, albeit a slow process -Carol