
The basic symbol for most lights is a circle and, as with duplexes, variations on how it is drawn and abbreviations next to it convey additional and essential information.

The number 220 next to a duplex indicates it’s a 220-volt outlet, commonly used for appliances that require 220 volts, like ovens and dryers.įinally, if you see a square around a duplex or a quad (that is an outlet with four sockets) that indicates it’s a floor receptacle. Abbreviations and numbers next to the duplex provide additional information.įor example, GFCI indicates a ground-fault circuit interrupter (an outlet with a built-in fast acting circuit breaker that prevents electric shocks and will typically be used with outlets near water, in bathrooms and kitchens). DuplexesĪ circle off of the wall and connected to it by two parallel lines represents a typical outlet (or receptacle) with two sockets. $75.00 USD | 2H 9M Preview Course Common Electrical and Lighting Symbols 1. These will typically also be listed in a legend, so it isn’t necessary to memorize them all. While installation of the wiring and outlets will be left to an electrician, here are common blueprint symbols. So the architect pays a lot of attention to the electrical design.” There’s going to be many points throughout the house where the homeowner’s going to interact with light switches, with appliances and other things that are fed through the electrical system. “The homeowner is going to interact with electrical much more than they’re going to interact with things like plumbing lines or HVAC ductwork. Jordan Smith explains in his Introduction to Reading Blueprints course : Of the different systems on MEP plans, you’ll want to pay special attention to the electrical elements and their placement. Some elements of these plans will have more direct implications for builders as recessed lighting, ceiling fans, and features that have to be blocked (surrounded by a small frame) for support. While builders don’t need to understand everything in the MEP plans, builders should be aware of how these systems will operate and where the wires and pipes will be placed.Īrchitects also include information about outlets and switches in their power and data plans-which are part of the blueprints package-though these are generally not as comprehensive as MEP plans.

Heating and air-conditioning systems, plumbing, electrical outlets and wiring (including lighting), and other mechanical systems are typically detailed in MEP (mechanical, electric, plumbing) plans, and installed by specialists in their field.
