Introduction
Having slow internet can be frustrating. You may think the only solution is upgrading your plan with your internet service provider (ISP). However, there are things you can do on your end to potentially boost speeds without spending more money. One option is rewiring the electrical system in your home. Rewiring outlets and lights can allow for faster internet if done properly. With some planning and basic electrical skills, I was able to rewire my home's electrical system to optimize it for faster internet speeds without hiring an electrician.
Reasons for Rewiring
There are a few key reasons why rewiring your electrical system can allow for faster internet speeds:
Reduce Electrical Interference
The electrical wiring in most homes can cause interference with Wi-Fi signals. This electromagnetic interference comes from multiple devices plugged into outlets, lights, and appliances running on the same circuits. Rewiring can isolate the Wi-Fi router onto its own dedicated circuit to reduce interference.
Improve Power Delivery
Insufficient power delivery to your router can inhibit maximum speeds. Older homes may have outdated electrical systems incapable of providing steady, clean power. Rewiring gives you an opportunity to upgrade electrical components like outlets and breakers. This ensures consistent, stable power delivery to the router.
Optimal Router Placement
Rewiring also allows you to strategically place your router in the most central location within your home. Centrally locating the router with a clear wiring path can distribute strong Wi-Fi signals throughout the home.
Safety Precautions
Working with electrical systems can be dangerous if not done properly. Before rewiring, be sure to take necessary safety precautions:
- Turn off power at the main breaker panel and verify it is off with a voltage tester.
- Only work on one circuit at a time, keeping all others turned off.
- Use insulated tools and wear rubber-soled shoes.
- Carefully consult circuit maps to identify all wires and connections.
- Connect one wire at a time so you do not mix up hot and neutral connections.
- Have an electrician inspect your work before turning power back on.
What You'll Need
To rewire your electrical system, you will need:
- Circuit tester - To map existing circuits
- Voltage tester - To confirm power is off before working
- Electrical tape - For insulating wires
- Wire cutters/strippers - For accessing wires
- Junction boxes - For joining wires together
- Conduit/tubing - To protect new wiring runs
- Cable staples - For securing wires
- Electrical outlets/switches - New ones for replaced wiring
- Breakers - For new/upgraded circuits
Mapping Existing Circuits
The first step is using a circuit tester to identify and label all existing circuits at outlets and lights. Turn breakers off one at a time and see which outlets/lights it controls. This circuit map will be vital for rewiring to avoid mixing up hot wires later. Mark each outlet/switch clearly indicating which breaker it connects to.
Pay special attention to locating the outlet your router currently plugs into. Trace where this outlet wiring runs back to in the breaker panel. You will eventually want to isolate the router onto its own dedicated circuit.
Running New Wiring
Next, you will need to run new wiring from the breaker panel to outlets.
Breaker Panel to Outlet
- Shut off the main breaker and verify power is off with a voltage tester.
- Remove the cover on your breaker panel to access the wires and breakers inside.
- Feed the new wiring through 1/2 inch conduit running from the basement to the outlet location. Secure conduit with cable staples.
- Use junction boxes to extend existing wires or splice the new wiring into the existing system.
- Label both ends of each wire clearly indicating the circuit.
Router Outlet
- Run dedicated wiring from the panel through conduit to where you want your router outlet located. Use a distinct color wiring different from existing wiring.
- Install a new outlet at this location and connect your dedicated router wiring to it.
- Connect the other end of the router wiring to a new 20 amp breaker in the panel.
Replacing Outlets and Switches
With the wiring rerouted, it is a good idea to upgrade related electrical components:
- Replace any old, damaged outlets and switches with new ones wherever you ran new wiring.
- Install safety GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other moisture-prone areas.
- Consider installing Ethernet ports at central locations to further optimize internet connectivity.
Inspecting and Turning Power Back On
Once the rewiring is complete:
- Carefully inspect all connections, outlets, and fixtures to ensure proper installation.
- Have an electrician verify safety of all wiring before turning power back on.
- Flip each breaker on one at a time to check for functionality.
- Connect devices and appliances to appropriate outlets based on new circuit layout.
- Finally, plug in your router to the dedicated outlet and verify improved internet speeds.
Rewiring your electrical system is a major undertaking but pays dividends through faster, more reliable internet. With proper precautions and planning, this is a DIY project that anyone comfortable working with electrical systems can tackle. Just be sure to always put safety first and get professional help if needed. The improved Wi-Fi connectivity will make all the effort worthwhile.