basic wiring question

[falcon]

I am about to begin re-wiring my boat and have a very basic question regarding wiring: To correctly wire two separate cabin lights for example, should I run two separate 14 gauge circuits ( four wires) from the distribution panel (or fuse bar) back and forth to each light, or run a single branched circuit? I apologize in advance for offending anyone with my ignorance, but I am starting at ground zero when it comes to electrical wiring.

Pete

[Ryan]

You can do either, it is a matter of preference. One single run saves a little on wire and saves you some room at the buss, but separate runs give you more flexibility in the future. My personal preference is for dedicated runs, but as long as the wire and fuse is appropriately sized, choose which method works best for you.

Good Luck!

Ryan

[Tim]

I prefer dedicated runs, both positive and negative, for each fixture, if only because it makes diagnostics easier in the future, and if one wire should go bad for some reason (which it won't if properly installed, but still...) then you only lose one fixture, not a whole series.

Plus, many fixtures barely give you enough room to hook up one set of connectors, much less a second set to continue onto another fixture in the line.

[Oscar]

Separate circuits are better for the above stated reasons but, also create a lot of wiring and possible clutter in the panel. Haven't been faced with wiring a complete large boat, yet, but have always been determined to put a number of "sub-panels" around the boat for general lighting purposes and to then run dedicated circuits from them.

[Capn_Tom]

I installed 4 Blue Sea dual bus bars w/ cover (1 fore and aft on each side). I wired port and stbd to separate breakers and the bus bars in parrallel all with 12 ga wire. I then ran my individual lights and fans to the busbars with 14 ga. This keeps my main wiring runs small but allows for quick diagnosis. I also liked the covered bus bars in lockers.

I am sympathetic to your frustration with the learning curve on wiring. I have looked at all the normal books and they range from ridiculously basic to in depth theory. What would be helpful is a detailed plan for a small, medium, and large boat.

[falcon]

Thank you all. Your input was exactly what I needed. I had reviewed several books on the subject but remained unclear on the subject of dedicated runs.

Pete