Updating Electrical Wiring in Older Homes: Costs and Considerations

Upgrading the electrical system in an older home can seem daunting, but it is often a necessary task to keep your home safe and functional. As the owner of an older home, I have recently gone through the process of updating my electrical wiring, and learned a great deal along the way. In this article, I will share my experience and considerations for others looking to update wiring in an aging home.

Evaluating Your Existing Electrical System

The first step is to thoroughly evaluate your home's current electrical system to determine what specifically needs to be updated. Here are some key aspects I looked at:

• Type of wiring: Older homes often have knob-and-tube wiring, which was common from about 1880-1930. This type of wiring is outdated and poses safety risks, so upgrading it should be a priority.
• Wire insulation: Insulation can become brittle and cracked over time, exposing copper wiring. This is a fire hazard.
• Circuit capacity: Older homes often lack sufficient circuits and capacity for modern electrical needs. Adding more circuits and increasing capacity may be necessary.
• Grounding: Proper grounding helps prevent shocks and electrocution. Old systems may lack grounding altogether. Upgrading to include proper grounding is essential.
• Light fixtures: Outdated light fixtures with old wiring should be replaced.
• Wall outlets: The number, placement, and grounding of outlets may need updating.

Carefully inspecting my home's wiring helped me pinpoint problem areas and develop a plan. I recommend having a licensed electrician assess your system if you are uncertain.

Determining Necessary Upgrades

Once you understand your existing system, you can determine required upgrades. Common electrical upgrades for older homes include:

• Rewiring: Replacing outdated, risky knob-and-tube wiring with modern wiring. This was the top priority for my home.
• Service panel: Upgrading electrical service with a new breaker panel to add capacity.
• Circuit breakers: Updating old fuses to modern grounded circuit breakers.
• Amperage: Increasing electrical service amperage if needed to meet current demand.
• GFCI outlets: Installing ground fault circuit interrupter outlets in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry, and other areas to prevent shocks.
• Lighting: Replacing old light fixtures with updated, energy efficient LED lighting and wiring.
• Smoke detectors: Adding hardwired smoke detectors throughout the home.
• Surge protection: Installing whole house surge protectors to protect electronics.

I recommend having a licensed electrician identify mandatory updates for safety and legal compliance. Prioritize these essential upgrades first.

Cost Factors and Variables

The cost to update electrical in an older home varies drastically based on factors like:

• Amount of rewiring: More extensive rewiring raises costs. Rewiring my entire home cost around $8,000.
• Service panel upgrade: Upgrading the main service panel can cost $1,000-$3,000.
• Circuit breakers: New grounded circuit breakers and installation may cost $500-$2,000.
• Smoke detectors: Hardwired smoke detectors cost around $30-$60 per detector, plus $100 per hour for installation.
• Surge protection: Whole house surge protectors cost $500-$1,500 installed.
• Labor rates: Electrician hourly rates range from $40-$100 per hour or more.
• Home size: Larger homes require more wiring and components, increasing costs.
• Energy efficiency upgrades: Any upgrades to increase efficiency, like LED lighting, impact costs.
• Permit fees: Electrical permits and inspections may range from $100-$500 depending on the scope of work.

I obtained quotes from multiple electricians to compare rates and ensure reasonable pricing. Be sure to get a detailed estimate for your specific project.

Prioritizing and Budgeting for Upgrades

I prioritized critical safety upgrades first, like rewiring and smoke detectors, before less urgent upgrades like surge protection. Create a priority list based on:

• Safety risks: Unsafe wiring and lack of smoke detectors should be addressed immediately.
• Code compliance: Any violations of electrical code should be remedied.
• Functional needs: Consider circuit capacity and outlets needed to meet your electrical needs.
• Energy efficiency: LED lighting and other upgrades to increase efficiency can follow initial safety upgrades.
• Future plans: Factor in any additions like electric vehicles that increase electrical demand.

I budgeted around $10,000 to fully upgrade my home's electrical system over time. Costs for your project will depend on your home's needs. Get multiple quotes and leave room in your budget for unexpected issues that can arise once work begins.

Updating electrical in an aging home is an investment. While costs can be significant, modern wiring and capacity provides safety, functionality, and peace of mind. With proper planning and budgeting, you can complete projects in phases if needed. The outcome is well worth it for me, and can be for you too with the right approach.