How to Rewire Your Home for Next Level Convenience and Safety

Why Rewire Your Home?

Rewiring your home can provide several important benefits:

• Increased safety - Old wiring can present fire and electrocution hazards. Upgrading provides peace of mind by reducing these risks.

• Enhanced convenience - Modern wiring enables installing new features like programmable thermostats, smart lighting controls, whole home audio, electric vehicle chargers, etc. This allows you to customize and automate your home.

• Higher efficiency - New wiring supports modern, energy efficient appliances and lighting. This can help to reduce your utility bills.

• Improved aesthetics - Rewiring enables removing old, outdated electrical boxes, switches and receptacles. New components give a cleaner look.

• Increased home value - Upgraded electrical is a big selling point for home buyers. Homes with modern wiring can demand higher prices.

Evaluating Your Current Wiring

Before deciding on a full rewire, take stock of your existing electrical system:

• Age - Older homes generally need rewiring. If your wiring dates back 50+ years, it's outdated. Newer homes may just need minor upgrades.

• Safety - Check for frayed cords, hot outlets, flickering lights. These indicate potential hazards requiring a rewire.

• Capacity - Count electrical outlets in each room. Rooms should have enough outlets to power today's device usage without relying heavily on extension cords and power strips.

• Nuisance issues - Note rooms where you frequently trip breakers when using multiple devices. This suggests your electrical load exceeds capacity.

• Aesthetics - Make note of visible conduit, dated looking components, and limited switch/outlet options. A rewire can provide huge visual improvements.

Key Steps for a Home Rewire Project

Rewiring a home is a major project that requires careful planning and execution:

Hire a Licensed Electrician

Electrical work can be extremely dangerous if not done properly. Always hire a licensed electrician rather than attempting a DIY rewire.

Plan the New Circuit Layout

Your electrician will evaluate your home's needs and design new circuits accordingly. Plan for expanded capacity and add circuits for future needs.

Select Wiring and Components

Choose from updated wiring like copper or aluminum. Pick switches, outlets, panel, etc. for capabilities and aesthetics. Smart components are popular.

Install New Wiring and Components

Your electrician will safely run all new wiring and swap out electrical boxes, panels and other aging equipment for new versions.

Connect Devices and Test

The final step is connecting appliances and devices to the new circuits. Thoroughly test each circuit before closing up walls.

Smart Home Add-Ons to Consider

Beyond a basic rewire, consider wiring your home for these popular smart upgrades:

• Whole home audio - Pre-wire for speakers to enable immersive music streaming.

• Smart lighting - Run wiring for smart switches and dimmers that enable voice or app control.

• Smart thermostat - Rewire heating and cooling equipment for smart thermostats with remote access and automation.

• Home security system - Pre-install wiring for sensors, cameras, alarm panels and other security devices.

• Electric vehicle charger - Install a high capacity circuit for fast electric vehicle charging stations.

Bottom Line

While not cheap, rewiring your outdated home electrical provides safety, efficiency, convenience and resale value benefits that make it a worthwhile upgrade. Take time to hire the right electrician so the job is done properly.