How to Rewire Your 1890s Victorian Home Without Burning it Down

Assess the Existing Electrical System

Before attempting to rewire my 1890s Victorian home, I first need to thoroughly assess the existing electrical system to understand what I'm working with. Here are the key things I should look at:

• Circuit breaker panel - Locate the main circuit breaker panel and inspect the type of wiring, amperage capacity, number of circuits, etc. Older homes may have insufficient amperage capacity or use outdated materials like cloth-insulated wiring.

• Outlets and switches - Check the location and number of electrical outlets and switches throughout the home. Older homes often lack sufficient outlets. I should map out locations to plan for adding more. Also check for grounded 3-prong outlets vs outdated 2-prong.

• Light fixtures - Make note of all hardwired light fixtures. These will need to be incorporated into the new wiring.

• Appliances - Take stock of all major appliances like stoves, ovens, hot water heaters, etc. I'll need to ensure the new electrical service can handle the load.

• Concealed wiring - For any walls or ceilings I plan to open up, carefully examine the existing wiring to see if it needs replacement. Brittle or frayed cloth-insulated wiring will need to be replaced.

Develop a Rewiring Plan

Once I understand the full scope of the existing electrical system, I can develop a plan for the rewiring project:

• Determine the amperage capacity needed. For an 1890s Victorian, upgrading the service to 200 amps is recommended to support modern power needs.

• Decide whether to replace or upgrade the circuit breaker panel. If it's antique or uses outdated fuses, replacement is best.

• Map out proposed new circuit routes throughout the home, ensuring each room has sufficient outlets placed strategically.

• Plan for adding all important safety features like arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs).

• Determine the best whole home surge suppression system to protect electronics.

• Ensure all lighting circuits are incorporated to support existing and new light fixtures.

• Budget for all necessary wiring, conduits, outlets, breakers, and other materials. Expect costs to run $3-5k or more for a full rewire.

Address Any Hazardous "Knob and Tube" Wiring

Homes from the 1890s likely contain original "knob and tube" wiring which is a serious fire hazard if still live. This antiquated wiring system should be properly removed by an electrician prior to rewiring. Key steps include:

• Locating all runs of knob and tube wiring, often in attics or inside walls.

• Cutting back wires and removing any connections to existing electrical systems. Cap and tape off.

• Removing old porcelain knobs and tubes.

• Replacing any removed sections with new wiring as part of the rewiring project.

• If any knob and tube wiring will remain untouched, it should be labeled as inactive.

Use Proper Materials and Methods

The materials and methods I use are crucial for both safety and longevity of the new electrical system:

• For power from the main panel, use copper or aluminum feeder wires. Follow code for size - likely 2/0 aluminum for 200 amp service.

• For circuits, use copper wiring like 12/2 NM cable. Match wire gauge to circuit amperage.

• Use metal conduit for any exposed runs, like to detached garages or exterior outlets. Avoid flammable plastics.

• Make sure all circuits incorporate a dedicated ground wire. No more outdated 2-prong outlets.

• Use junction boxes to split wiring runs, not loose connections. Anchor securely.

• Install GFCI outlets anywhere near water sources like kitchens and bathrooms.

• Use AFCI breakers for bedroom circuits to prevent fire from arcs/sparks.

• Label every circuit clearly at the breaker panel and keep a wiring diagram on-site.

Consider Hiring an Electrician

Due to the complexity and risks involved, I would strongly consider hiring a licensed and insured electrician to handle most or all of the rewiring work. They have the knowledge, tools, and safety gear to get the job done right. I can still plan out the project but let the pros do the dangerous steps like:

• Physically removing old knob and tube wiring.

• Installing the new circuit breaker panel and main power feeds.

• Securing conduits and junction boxes.

• Connecting all the wires properly at outlets and switches.

Paying an electrician will give me valuable peace of mind knowing my home's electrical system was upgraded safely and correctly. I can focus on any cosmetic renovations needed after the rewiring is complete.

Work Safely With A Goal of No Fires

Above all else, safety should be the number one goal. Rewiring an old home comes with fire risks if improper wiring is installed. To promote safety:

• Have fire extinguishers and smoke detectors on site during work.

• Only do work when others are home for extra safety.

• Turn power off at the breaker panel when wiring outlets and switches.

• Test each circuit before turning power back on.

• Keep the area clean and dry of any flammable materials.

By taking the right precautions, I can successfully rewire my 1890s home without any burned fingers...or burned-down houses! A modern electrical system will make the home safer and more livable for many years to come.