How to Rewire Your Home Without An Electrician (And Not Burn It Down)

Assessing Your Electrical Needs

Before attempting any electrical work, I take stock of what needs rewiring in my home. I walk through each room and make notes about outlets, light fixtures, and appliances that need upgrades or repairs. I also think about any new circuits I may want to add, like installing recessed lighting or setting up a home office. Having a full sense of the scope of work helps me plan and budget appropriately.

Researching Electrical Codes

One of the most important steps is researching my local electrical codes. I look up the National Electrical Code (NEC) as well as state and municipal codes to understand the legal requirements for home electrical work. Some key aspects I make sure to check are:

• Required permits for electrical work
• Minimum wire sizes for circuits
• Outlet and lighting requirements for each room
• Safety rules like GFCI outlet placement near water sources
• Inspection and certification needs once work is complete

Knowing the codes thoroughly helps ensure my DIY electrical project meets all safety and function requirements. I don't want to do the work twice because I missed a key code!

Stocking Up on Electrical Supplies

With my electrical plan in place, I compile a list of all the supplies I need. For a full rewiring, this may include:

• Romex electrical wire - I make sure to get the correct gauge specified by code for each circuit.
• Breakers - The amp rating must match the wire gauge on the circuit.
• Junction boxes - I get extras so I can easily splice wires together.
• Outlets and switches - Match the style of your existing hardware.
• Wire connectors - To join multiple wires securely.
• Conduit - Useful for protecting exposed wires.
• Electrical tape - For covering splices and connections.
• Cable staples - To tack wires in place.

I give myself plenty of extra supplies to allow for mistakes and re-dos. It avoids having to constantly run to the hardware store when issues crop up.

Turning Off Power and Removing Old Wiring

Safety is paramount when dealing with electricity. Before touching any wires, I shut off power to the whole home at the main breaker panel. I then remove the old wiring from outlets and switches, disconnecting them from the breakers. Appliance cords also get detached.

As I remove wires, I take photos and label everything so I know how to reconnect them properly later. Proper labeling avoids errors that could damage appliances or electronics when power is restored.

Running and Securing New Wires

According to my wiring plan, I run the new Romex wires through walls and ceilings between outlets, switches, and appliances. I staple the wires in place every few feet for safety and to prevent sagging. For existing walls, I fish wire through openings or drill new holes in strategic spots if needed.

I make sure to match wire size, color codes, and circuit assignments from my plan. Clear and consistent labeling at every junction and endpoint helps avoid mix-ups. I also splice and cover all connections securely. Leaving access points for testing wires comes in handy later during the project.

Installing New Outlets, Switches and Breakers

With the wires run, I'm ready to install the new outlets, switches, and circuit breakers. I follow manufacturer instructions carefully and make sure connections are tight and insulated properly.

For breakers, I ensure the wire size, amp rating, and circuit assignments all match my plan. The breakers must be compatible with my home's main service panel as well. I install GFCI outlets in any locations near water sources to prevent shocks.

Testing Circuits Before Powering Up

Once everything mechanical is complete, I turn the main power back on and test each circuit one by one. I first use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm power is live. I then test each outlet, switch, and appliance.

For lighting circuits, I turn switches on one-by-one to check each light. On outlet circuits, I plug in devices like lamps to confirm everything works. Testing methodically avoids overloading circuits and finding errors down the line.

Final Inspections and Certification

As a final safety measure, I have new wiring inspected by the local building department. They ensure my work meets all electrical code requirements. Some towns also require a licensed electrician to certify the safety of DIY electrical work.

I fix any issues flagged in the inspection and get formal approval before actively using the new circuits. Proper certification ensures my home's electrical system is safe for my family and meets any insurance requirements. Calling the pros for the final check provides peace of mind.

Safety Tips

Rewiring done wrong can lead to fires or electrocution down the line. Here are some key safety tips I keep in mind:

• Turn power OFF and unplug appliances before working on wires.
• Wear insulated gloves and eye protection when handling wires.
• Keep wires free of contact with sharp edges or hot surfaces.
• Use junction boxes to cover all connections and splices.
• Double-check wires are securely fastened with no exposed metal.
• Match breaker amp rating with the wire size.
• Have GFCI outlets near kitchen, bathroom and laundry areas.
• Hire an electrician if you lack confidence in any aspect of the work.

The extra diligence goes a long way to protecting my home and family from electrical hazards. I'd rather take it slow and be safe than risk an accident.