Introduction
Rewiring a home can seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning and safety precautions, it is possible for a committed DIYer to complete. As the homeowner, I have taken on various remodeling projects in my home, but rewiring ranks among the most challenging. With sufficient research, the right tools, and adhering to local building codes, this is a manageable project that will save thousands of dollars in electrician fees.
In this comprehensive guide, I will outline the necessary preparations, materials, steps, and best practices to successfully rewire a home as a DIYer. While mistakes can prove costly when dealing with electrical systems, the risks can be minimized with caution, understanding of electrical fundamentals, and ensuring all work meets the standards set forth in the National Electrical Code (NEC).
Preparations
Research and Understand Electrical Basics
- Educating yourself on electrical terminology, systems, and components is crucial when taking on a rewiring project. Being able to identify and work with various wire gauges, connectors, boxes, circuits, and other parts is essential. Reference the NEC and understand local regulations.
Create a Wiring Plan
- Map out your new wiring layout on paper. Identify locations of outlets, switches, appliances, and lighting fixtures. Mark where wires will run through walls, ceilings, and floors. Calculate total load and breaker requirements.
Assemble Proper Tools and Materials
- Rewiring requires strippers, cutters, cordless drills, fish tape, voltage testers, junction boxes, Romex NM-B wiring, wire nuts, receptacles, GFCI outlets, breakers, and other electrical components. Ensure all comply with the NEC.
Safety First
- Use caution when dealing with live wires. Turn off breakers and verify power is off using a non-contact voltage tester. Wear personal protective equipment like eyewear, gloves, and long sleeves.
Know When to Hire a Professional Electrician
- While many rewiring tasks can be DIY, some may require an electrician's expertise, such as safely tying into the main service panel or installing new wiring to detached buildings.
Rewiring Step-by-Step
Turn Off Power and Remove Old Wiring
- Shut off all breakers, verify power is off. Remove existing receptacles, switches, fixture boxes, and old wiring from walls. Use caution not to damage wall surfaces.
Run New Circuits and Cables
- Plan routes and drill holes to run new NM-B Romex wires between breaker panel, lights, switches, and receptacles. Use fish tape to pull cables through finished walls. Follow code for cable type/gauge.
Install New Outlet and Switch Boxes
- Secure new electrical boxes in all locations using appropriate connectors and fasteners per code. Provide sufficient workspace in each box. Use cable clamps to secure wiring.
Connect Switches, Receptacles, and Other Devices
- Attach new duplex receptacles, light switches, GFCI outlets, dimmers, fixture boxes, cover plates, and other devices using correct connectors and terminal screws.
Connect Circuit Breakers and Grounding
- Shut off main breaker before tying into service panel. Use compatible breakers and amperage for each new circuit. Ensure neutral and ground wires are properly terminated.
Verify Proper Wiring at Each Location
- Confirm proper wire connections, polarity, grounding, and that there are no shorts. Test each outlet and switch de-energized and live. Rectify issues.
Tag and Label New Circuits
- Use circuit directory in panel and outlet/switch cover plate labels to identify each new circuit installed throughout the home.
Helpful Rewiring Tips
- Use cable staples/fasteners every 4-6 feet as required by code
- Only splice wires inside junction boxes with wire nuts
- Avoid cable runs through moisture prone areas like under sinks
- Confirm proper wire gauge is used based on breaker amperage
- Connect only 1 wire to terminals to prevent overheating
By taking the proper safety precautions and following local codes, an ambitious DIYer can successfully rewire their home and gain satisfaction and cost savings from tackling this complex project. Let me know if you have any other rewiring questions!