Are most homes wired in series or parallel?

Most homes are wired in parallel because this allows for several advantages in electrical distribution. Parallel wiring ensures that each appliance or light fixture receives the full voltage of the power supply, which is typically 120 volts or 240 volts, depending on the region. This configuration also provides a more consistent and reliable performance; if one device fails or is disconnected, it does not affect the operation of others. Each device operates independently, which is essential for safety and convenience in a household setting.

In contrast, series wiring would share the voltage across all devices, which would lower the voltage available to each device as more are added to the circuit. This could lead to insufficient power for appliances, resulting in dim lights and underperforming devices. Additionally, if one device in a series circuit fails, it can interrupt the entire circuit, causing all devices to stop functioning.

Therefore, the selection of parallel wiring is a deliberate design choice to enhance safety, reliability, and functionality in residential electrical systems.