How to Pre-Wire a Sound System
Pre-wiring a sound system refers to method used to deliver electricity to your home theater and sound system, as well as the cable connections between components such as the TV and gaming console. Pre-wire a media room so that speakers' wire, cables and power supply are placed behind a wall. Many systems include a closet sized room to access the cables and electrical outlets.
- Install the ground wires correctly to reduce white noise and humming sounds. Improper grounding causes interference, which can cause buzzing sounds in audio systems. Hire an electrician to install a single ground from the outlet powering the sound system directly to the electric service panel. Plan other outlets for components such as the DVD player. Realize that some jurisdictions prevent electricians from wiring dedicated ground wires due to building codes.
- Decide if you want or need to run a 20 amp dedicated circuit to power the audio home theater unit only. Use high quality 120-volt receptacles because these produce the smoothest power. Most electricians use standard receptacles, therefore this is a component that you must request.
- Ensure that the electrical wiring is isolated from the rest of the power in the home. For instance, an air conditioner or electric heater draws a lot of power. These devices can cause power spikes that are usually harmless to the sound system but may cause damage and sound interference.
- Consider installing a secondary breaker to flip when peaked at 20 or 25 amps. The dedicated wiring also helps to reduce the occurrence of power spikes threatening the system caused by lightning or surges in power.