How To Rewire Your 1850s Farmhouse Without Burning it Down

Rewiring an old farmhouse can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and precautions it can be done safely. Here is a comprehensive guide on how I rewired my 1850s farmhouse without any fires or injuries.

Assess the Existing Electrical System

The first step is to thoroughly inspect the existing electrical system to understand what needs to be replaced or upgraded.

• Examine the circuit breaker panel - is it sufficient for the house's needs? Older panels may need upgrading to accommodate more circuits.

• Look at the wiring - cloth-wrapped wiring common in old homes is a fire hazard. Any original wiring will need replacement.

• Check for knob and tube wiring - this obsolete wiring system must be completely removed.

• Test all outlets and fixtures for functionality and safety. Replace any with problems.

• Evaluate the amperage - old wiring may not handle high power needs of modern appliances.

• Document all issues to determine the extent of the rewiring job.

Develop a Rewiring Plan

Once I fully understood the scope of the project, I developed a plan for the new wiring:

• Decide which sections of the house to rewire first. Consider complexity and necessity.

• Select locations for new switches, outlets, and fixtures. Strive for up-to-code spacing.

• Determine required amperage for each room - consider appliance usage.

• Choose appropriate gauge wiring - follow electrical code requirements.

• Create circuit maps indicating all new switch and outlet placements.

• Plan safe wiring routes between the circuit breaker panel, devices, and fixtures.

• Obtain all necessary permits for the work.

Safely Rewire the Farmhouse

With a solid rewiring plan in place, I was ready to get to work. Safety was paramount:

• Turn off power at the breaker panel and use a non-contact voltage tester to confirm it is dead.

• Review and follow all relevant electrical codes for your area.

• Use GFCI outlets near water sources to prevent shocks.

• Choose fire-rated building materials like metal boxes and conduits.

• Keep flammable items away from wiring work areas.

• Verify wires are securely connected with proper junction boxes.

• Avoid overloading circuits by exceeding recommended capacity.

• Connect the ground wires first for safety.

• Label and organize all wires and connections neatly.

• Get wiring inspected by the local building department when complete.

Restore Power and Test the System

Once the inspectors approve the new wiring, it's time to get the power back on:

• Turn the main breaker on and methodically test each new outlet, switch, and fixture.

• Check for secure connections by wiggling wires - loose wires can spark fires.

• Examine for any hot spots in junction boxes that could indicate problems.

• Consider an infrared scan to identify any hidden connection issues.

• Operate all lighting on each circuit to verify proper switch control.

• Plug in and turn on appliances around the house to test each outlet under load.

• Install smoke detectors and surge protectors for added electrical fire safety.

By taking a careful and planned approach, I successfully rewired my old farmhouse without any fire hazards or damage. The house now has a modern, robust electrical system that will serve it for another 100 years! Let me know if you have any other old home rewiring questions.