How to Rewire Your 200 Year Old Farmhouse Without Burning it Down

Assess the Current Wiring

Rewiring a 200 year old farmhouse can seem daunting, but with proper planning and safety precautions, it can be done safely. The first step is to thoroughly assess the current wiring throughout the home.

• Examine each room carefully, looking inside walls, under floors, and in the attic and basement. Make note of the type of wiring, such as knob-and-tube or cloth-covered wiring, as well as the gauge and condition.
• Determine if the current wiring is sufficient for your needs. Older small gauge wiring may not support running multiple modern appliances and electronics.
• Check for hazards like exposed, frayed or spliced wiring, improper connections, and outlets that spark or feel hot. These can cause fires and need to be addressed.
• Consider having a professional home inspector examine the electrical system to provide an objective assessment. Their expertise can identify potential red flags and give recommendations on upgrades.

Thoroughly understanding the home's current wiring situation is crucial for planning the scope of the rewiring project. Knowing the problems that exist will inform the necessary upgrades.

Create a Rewiring Plan

With the assessment complete, the next key step is creating a rewiring plan. This involves:

• Deciding which sections of wiring will need to be replaced versus upgraded or repaired. Prioritize hazardous areas first.
• Determining the new wire gauge and type needed. Modern wiring is typically 12 or 14 gauge copper.
• Considering any service panel upgrades required to support added circuits. 200 amps is commonly used for modern homes.
• Mapping proposed new circuit routes throughout the home to power lights, outlets, and appliances.
• Researching and adhering to all local electrical codes. Permits may be required for major rewiring.
• Budgeting for materials like wire, conduit, junction boxes, breakers, and tools. And factor in labor costs if hiring an electrician.

Having a well-thought-out plan in place will make the rewiring process smoother and help avoid potential issues down the road.

Safely Rewire Room by Room

With the prep work done, it's time to rewire. Focus on one room or section at a time for organization and safety.

• Turn off power at the main breaker before working. Verify it's off by testing outlets.
• Remove old wiring but do so carefully to limit damage to walls and ceilings.
• Thoroughly inspect the area for any hidden hazards concealed by old insulation or wiring.
• Install new wiring per your plans, following codes. Use appropriate conduit and junction boxes.
• Connect devices and fixtures, replacing any also in need of an upgrade. Use wire nuts or crimp connectors.
• Test each run before moving on using a voltmeter or by powering on safely.
• Check your work to ensure wires are secure and properly labeled at junction points.
• Replace insulation, walls, and fixtures. Patch and paint to conceal new wire runs.
• Document the rewiring with photos and notes in case future issues arise.

By systematically rewiring each section, you can methodically upgrade the home without leaving it unusable. Allowing time to check your work will also help avoid mistakes.

Work Safely and Ask for Help When Needed

When rewiring an old home, safety should be the top concern. Always:

• Wear electrical gloves and eye protection when working with live wiring.
• Take precautions against lead paint and asbestos in old homes when disturbing walls and ceilings.
• Use extra caution around plumbing, especially in kitchens and bathrooms where water and electricity are dangerously close.
• Have a fire extinguisher on hand in case live wires spark and ignite insulation or wood.
• Shut off the power again and double check with a tester if you feel unsure about your work at any point.
• Consult with or hire a licensed electrician for complicated circuitry or service panel upgrades. Their expertise can be invaluable for avoiding disasters.

While daunting, rewiring a 200 year old farmhouse can absolutely be a DIY project. Just take it slow, exercise extreme caution, and don't be afraid to call in a professional when needed. With adequate planning and preparation, you can modernize the wiring without burning the classic home down!