Rewiring a home can seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning and safety precautions, it's entirely possible for a homeowner to do it themselves without the help of an electrician. As someone who has successfully rewired parts of my home, I can provide tips on how to do it safely and legally.
Why Rewire a Home?
There are a few common reasons homeowners choose to rewire their house:
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Upgrading to a higher amperage - If your home still has 60 amp service, rewiring with 100 or 200 amps can power more appliances and electronics simultaneously.
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Replacing old and outdated wiring - Knob and tube wiring found in old homes is inefficient and potentially unsafe. Replacing it can prevent fires and electrocution.
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Rewiring after renovations or additions - Any additions or structural changes to a home usually require some rewiring to integrate seamlessly.
Dangers of DIY Home Electrical Work
While rewiring a home as a DIY project can save money, there are risks if proper safety isn't followed:
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Electrocution - Risk of shock and electrocution if wires are touched when live. Turn the main power off!
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Fire - Faulty wiring is the third leading cause of house fires. Improper wiring can overheat and ignite fires.
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Injury - There are risks of eye injuries, burns, and cuts when working with electrical wires. Be diligent.
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Legal issues - In most states, homeowners must get permits and pass inspections for DIY electrical work.
How to Rewire a Home Safely
Rewiring a house demands caution, preparation, and adherence to local electrical codes. Here are some tips:
Turn Off Power and Install New Breaker Box
The first step is to turn off power at the main breaker and verify it's off with a voltage tester. Then remove the old breaker box and install a new appropriately sized one as the starting point of the new wiring system.
Run New Circuit Wiring
map out the new circuits and runs you want installed in the home. Then run the new wiring through walls and ceilings to each outlet, switch and fixture. Use the proper gauge wire for the amperage needs of the circuit.
Use Proper Safety Gear
Wearing insulated gloves, glasses, sturdy shoes, and turning the power OFF are absolute musts for safety. Use fiberglass ladders and insulated tools. Never work on live wires!
Connect Switches, Outlets and Fixtures
With all new wiring run, the next step is connecting all the switches, outlets, light fixtures and appliances using twist-on wire connectors. Follow diagrams properly.
Get Required Permits and Inspections
Call your municipal building department and acquire the proper permits before starting work. Then have an inspector examine at certain checkpoints to ensure compliance with electrical code.
Label New Circuit Breakers
With all wiring completed, turn the main power back on and label each new circuit at the breaker box clearly for future reference.
Test All New Wiring
Walk through the home testing every outlet, switch and light to verify proper connections throughout the home. Check for tripped breakers too.
Final Safety Tips
Rewiring a home has inherent hazards if safety isn't the top priority:
- Never attempt a rewiring project if you have little electrical experience. Consult a licensed electrician if unsure.
- Turn power OFF! Never work on live wires to avoid electrocution risk.
- Wear rubber-soled shoes and insulated gloves when handling wires.
- Only use wiring of the correct gauge and type for the amperage of the circuit.
- Follow all electrical codes and acquire permits/inspections for any major electrical project.
- Use fiberglass ladders, insulated tools, and wear safety goggles.
- Take your time! Rushing leads to mistakes and shortcutting safety.
By following proper precautions and procedures, a diligent DIYer can successfully rewire their home as long as safety comes first! Proper planning and caution ensures you avoid fires, electrocution, and other hazards.