Staying up to code with the latest electrical standards can be expensive. As a homeowner trying to save money, you may be tempted to cut corners when updating your electrical system. However, skimping on electrical work can lead to dangerous situations. With some smart strategies, you can get your wiring up to code without breaking the bank.
Research Your Local Electrical Codes
The first step is understanding what updates are required in your area. Electrical codes are determined at the local level, so requirements vary across different cities and counties. Contact your local building department to find out:
- Which edition of the National Electrical Code has been adopted locally
- If there are any additional local amendments to the code
- What the compliance deadline is for any new code requirements
Knowing exactly what upgrades you need makes it easier to find the most cost-effective solutions.
Prioritize Critical Updates
With an older electrical system, chances are you'll need to make updates in multiple areas to bring everything up to the current code. Prioritize any upgrades that address immediate safety issues first. Some updates that should take priority include:
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Replacing outdated or damaged electrical panels or fuse boxes - These pose a serious fire hazard and should be the first thing to upgrade.
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Updating undersized wiring - Wiring that is too small for the amount of electricity drawn through it is a potential fire risk.
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Adding GFCI outlets - In bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other areas prone to water, installing ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets prevents shocks and electrocution.
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Improving electrical grounding - Properly grounded circuits prevent shocks and allow overcurrent devices to work properly.
Focusing on the most urgent safety upgrades first allows you to spread less critical updates over time.
Take Advantage of Existing Wiring
Whenever possible, use your existing electrical wiring layout to avoid the costs of running all new wires. For example:
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When replacing an electrical panel, choose one that fits in the same location so wiring doesn't have to be extended.
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If you need to add more circuits, look for opportunities to split existing circuits rather than running new wires.
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For things like adding GFCI protection, use receptacles that work with existing wiring rather than replacing everything.
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Upgrade lights and switches in place when possible, rather than moving fixtures to meet code.
Taking advantage of your existing wiring configuration saves a lot of time and hassle.
Shop Smart
To save money on materials for electrical projects:
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Buy electrical panels, breakers, receptacles, and switches from home improvement big box stores - They often have better prices than electrical supply houses.
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Check for available coupons and sales when purchasing materials. Time purchases right to get the best deals.
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Purchase store brands rather than name brands when possible - Products are often made in the same factories.
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Buy materials in bulk for bigger projects to take advantage of volume discounts.
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Salvage usable existing materials like conduits and junction boxes when remodeling.
A little smart shopping goes a long way towards electrical savings.
Consider DIY Options Carefully
In many cases, hiring a licensed electrician is required by law for major electrical work. However, some projects like installing new receptacles or replacing lights may allow DIY work. Consider DIY only for simple tasks that match your electrical skill level. Make safety the top priority:
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Turn power OFF at the breaker box before any work. Lock the box if others are in the home.
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Follow local permit requirements - they exist to ensure safety.
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Use extreme caution and stop immediately if unsure of any wiring. Hire a pro rather than guess.
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Inspect work thoroughly before turning power back on to catch any errors.
DIY electrical work can save money if done safely by a skilled homeowner on straightforward projects. Know your limits and when to call a professional.
Stick to Essential Updates
Focus only on the electrical upgrades actually required for safety and code compliance in your area. Prioritize fixes for real electrical issues over aesthetic improvements or conveniences. Some ways to avoid "scope creep":
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Pass on whole home rewiring - address only problem areas.
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Don't add unnecessary new lighting or outlets.
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Hold off on expensive smart home electrical upgrades.
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Defer electrical repairs in unfinished rooms or infrequently used areas.
Stick to essential fixes to keep your budget focused.
Final Considerations
Staying on a budget while navigating updated electrical codes does require some careful planning and discipline. However, with smart strategies like prioritizing critical fixes, shopping sales, and focusing only on required upgrades, you can achieve safety and compliance without overspending. Pay attention to local requirements, make strategic upgrade choices, and don't cut corners. Over time, you can make progress in getting outdated wiring up to code.