Introduction
Rewiring an old farmhouse can be daunting, but with proper precautions it can be done safely. As the owner of a 1850s farmhouse myself, I have learned the hard way how to update the wiring without catastrophic fires or electrocutions. Safety must come first when working with outdated electrical systems. In this guide, I will walk you step-by-step through assessing the current wiring, creating a plan, pulling permits, and executing the rewire while ** avoiding common mistakes**. With the right precautions, you can modernize your farmhouse wiring safely.
Assessing Your Current Wiring
The first step is understanding what you are working with. Here are some key steps:
Visual Inspection
- Carefully look at the visible wires, outlets, switches and junction boxes. Look for cloth-coated wiring, which was used in the 1850s and is a fire hazard. Verify the wire gauge - smaller than 14 gauge can overheat.
- Check for knob and tube wiring - this early system has exposed live wires and needs replacement.
- Note signs of amateur work - improper splices, loose connections, and wires secured with inappropriate materials like rope. These can cause shorts.
Circuit Mapping
- Map which fuses/breakers control each outlet and light fixture. Label everything clearly. This allows you to safely turn off sections of the system.
- Note any odd circuit routings - a bedroom and kitchen outlet on the same circuit for example. This will guide your rewire plan.
Smoke and Heat Checks
- Use an infrared camera or heat sensors to scan for hot spots in wiring which indicate trouble spots.
- Check for discolored/melting insulation or the faint smell of burning plastic which can indicate wire overheating.
Thoroughly understanding the existing system helps develop a tailored rewiring plan while identifying immediate hazards to address.
Creating a Rewiring Plan
With assessment complete, you can create a rewiring plan:
Prioritize Hazards
- First address any cloth-coated wiring, severely damaged wires or hazardous junction boxes to make the system safe.
Design Circuit Layout
- Map out new dedicated circuits for high load areas like kitchens, separate lighting and outlet circuits, and any new wiring for switches, fixtures, appliances etc.
Select Wire Gauge and Materials
- Choose the correct copper wire gauge for each circuit load according to electrical code. Use modern sheathed wiring.
Include Extra Capacity
- Allow for potential upgrades like higher wattage appliances, electric vehicles, etc. Oversize your wire gauge and provide extra circuits.
Develop a Schedule
- Plan the order to rewire rooms and segments of the system in a logical workflow. Prioritize high risk areas first. Allow testing time.
Having a clearly documented plan makes executing the rewire much smoother and safer.
Pulling Electrical Permits
Check with your local building department on permit requirements before starting work. Electrical permits are required in most areas for significant rewiring.
Reasons Permits Are Important
- They ensure your project meets electrical code minimum safety standards. Professional inspection provides oversight.
- Your home insurance may require permitted work to maintain coverage. Non-permitted work can void policies.
- If selling the home, buyers often make permits contingencies in offers. Lack of permits can impede sales.
Information Needed
When applying for the permit, you'll need:
- Description of the project scope and work being done
- Your rewiring plan covering circuits, wire sizing, materials, etc.
- Any required licensing if you are acting as contractor
Don't skip permitting - it protects you during the rewire and preserves your options when selling the home.
Executing the Rewire Safely
With planning and permits complete, it is time to do the careful rewiring of your farmhouse. Follow these best practices during the work:
Turn Off Power and Verify
- Turn off the main breaker and all circuits before working. Double check with a voltage tester that power is off to the wires you are accessing.
Disconnect and Remove Old Wiring
- As you dismantle the old system, cap and tape any wires you detach to avoid shorts. Remove old wiring once the new system is verified working.
Install New Wiring
- Anchor the new wires properly per code requirements. Avoid loose, stressed connections. Use junction boxes where wires branch.
Connect and Turn On Circuits One by One
- Connect each new circuit at the panel and devices. Turn it on and verify operation before moving to next circuit. Fix issues as you go.
Get Final Inspection
- After completing all work, get the final inspection before concealment. The inspector can catch any last issues to address.
Follow proper precautions and you can achieve a safe, modern wiring system in your classic farmhouse without catastrophes along the way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
It's easy to make missteps when rewiring an old home. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Failing to turn off power - working on live wires risks shock and shorts. Always double check with a tester.
- Using the wrong wire gauge - undersized wires dangerously overheat. Follow code ampacity requirements.
- Overloading circuits - too many appliances on one circuit blows breakers and risks fire. Stick to load limits.
- Incorrect wire splicing - loose connectors create arcs and heat. Use proper junction boxes and wire nuts.
- Poor wire anchoring - wires tugged loose spark shorts. Secure wires properly.
- Lack of permits - avoiding permits risks fines, insurance issues and problems selling your home.
Planning thoroughly, following electrical code, using caution around wires, and getting professional oversight via permits goes a long way to preventing disasters.
Tips for Success
Here are a few final tips to help your old farmhouse rewiring project go smoothly:
- Hire an electrician if you lack experience with electrical work. Professionals can save you costly mistakes.
- Take photos and label everything as you disassemble the old system to aid reassembly.
- Only open walls and ceilings as necessary to limit repairs needed later.
- Run all new low voltage wire also - network, coax, speaker systems etc. for future-proofing.
- Upgrade your electrical panel if needed to support additional circuits. A 200 amp panel is ideal.
Stay organized and patient - rewiring is a major project but very rewarding when finished. Your improved electrical system will meet your needs safely for decades to come.
Conclusion
Rewiring an antique farmhouse takes research, planning and caution. But with proper safety practices, permits, and help from professionals when needed, you can modernize your wiring without any fiery mishaps. Take things slowly, check your work, and your home will go from circuitous knob and tube wiring to a modern, safe electrical system. Enjoy your updated farmhouse for years to come!