Information

 

About Us

SoCal Installs is a locally owned and operated company. We have a genuine interest in our work and take a great deal of pride in providing top quality service to our neighbors. We insure and guarantee everything we do and sell. All prices and labor are confirmed prior to work, assuring you know every cost and procedure involved. We also match or beat all competitor pricing, so you CANNOT pay less. Thank you or choosing SoCal Installs for your HDTV and Stereo Needs!

Contact us Toll Free 1-888-762-2510

Electrical Wiring

Do I Need an Outlet Behind the TV?

Extension cords should never be used as a substitute for permanent wiring. The National Electric Code prohibits the use of extension or flexible cords for permanent use. Running these cords within the wall increases the chance of heat buildup in a non-rated wire, which can lead to fire. If a fire would result for this reason, this also risks voiding your homeowners/renters insurance.

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The National Electric Code states:
NEC ARTICLE 400 Flexible Cords and Cables General 400.1 Scope.
This article covers general requirements, applications, and construction specifications for flexible cords and flexible cables.
400.8 Uses Not Permitted.
Flexible cords and cables shall not be used for the following:
(1)As a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure
(2)Where run through holes in walls, structural ceilings, suspended ceilings, dropped ceilings, or floors
(3)Where run through doorways, windows, or similar openings
(4)Where attached to building surfaces.
Exception: Flexible cord and cable shall be permitted to be attached to building surfaces in accordance with the provisions of 368.8.
(5)Where concealed by walls, floors, or ceilings or located above suspended or dropped ceilings.
Most install companies will not do the electric wiring, or even mention it, which either leaves you with the power cord hanging below (which defeats the purpose of hiding the wires in the first place), or they ignore the code and run the wire in the wall with the component cords.A typical independent electrician will charge somewhere in the neighborhood of $150+ for a new plug, but we include it with our packages for $75 extra, which is a great deal.

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Surge Protection Options:

Since in most cases, the power cord will plug in directly behind the television and the mount is meant to keep the tv tight against the wall, it is cumbersome or impossible to use a typical surge protector behind the set. So what are your options for protecting your expensive television?
The best solution for issue this is the Power Bridge, a wiring system designed specifically for HDTV Plasma, LCD, and Home Theatre that meets the National Electric Code (NEC). Add this to your package for $100.

The power bridge basically creates a safe, closed non-powered circuit that only receives power when an extension cord is connected at the lower male outlet, which can then be plugged into your existing power strip, providing valuable surge protection for your television.Please let us know if you would like to include this option with your installation package. See this and more accessories here!

If you are have any questions, or if you are ready to set up an install time, Please call 619-254-2007 to speak directly with our experienced staff.