How to Rewire Your 1880s Home Without Burning it Down

Upgrading the electrical system in an 1880s home can be daunting, but with proper planning and care it can be done safely. As the owner of a historic home, I learned a lot through my own rewiring project. Here is my advice on how to rewire your Victorian-era house without catastrophe.

Assess Your Existing Electrical System

• Hire an electrician to inspect your existing wiring. They can identify safety issues, determine what can stay, and provide a rewiring plan.
• Original knob and tube wiring is outdated and dangerous. Any active knob and tube must be replaced.
• Older homes often have insufficient amperage for modern needs. Upgrading the service panel may be required.
• Look for signs of wear like frayed wires, hot spots, flickering lights. These indicate potentially hazardous wiring.

Develop a Rewiring Plan

• Decide how much you want to update. A full rewire is best for safety but can get expensive. You may opt for a partial upgrade.
• Keep accessible wiring like doorbell and lights. Replace attic, basement, and wall wiring.
• Choose permits carefully. Historic exemption permits can avoid full code upgrades.
• Prioritize high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Bedrooms can come later.
• Preserve historic wall and ceiling materials by limiting new wire runs.

Use Safer Wiring Methods

• Armored cable (AC) is an upgrade from old-fashioned fabric-coated wiring. It is flexible and protects conductors.
• Conduit provides more protection than open wires. Metal is sturdier but rigid. PVC plastic conduit is cheaper.
• Junction boxes organize connections securely. Use covered boxes in finished areas, uncovered in attics/basements.
• GFCI outlets monitor electricity flow and shut off power in a fault. Use near water sources like kitchens and bathrooms.

Prepare for the Rewiring Process

• Hire a licensed, insured electrician you trust. Get references from previous old home clients.
• Agree on a payment schedule tied to project milestones. Do not pay entirely upfront.
• Photograph conditions before work begins for reference later. Label wires as they are disconnected.
• Remove or protect cherished historic finishes like ornate ceilings and plasterwork.

Prioritize Safety During the Project

• Turn power off at the main panel when working. Use locking mechanisms so it stays off.
• Keep a fire extinguisher on each floor. Have smoke/CO detectors throughout.
• Only allow work during daylight hours for good visibility. Use work lights in darker areas.
• Do not leave wires exposed or unattended when workers leave for the day.

Rewiring an old home takes planning, diligence, and common sense. Take all precautions and your home will enjoy modern safety without losing its historic charm. Let me know if you have any other rewiring questions!