Rewiring your entire home is a big project, but it can be done yourself on a budget if you plan carefully and take it one step at a time. As the homeowner, I have tackled several home rewiring projects over the years and learned some key things along the way. Here is my guide to rewiring your home yourself on a budget.
Assess the Current Electrical System
Before beginning any rewiring project, it is critical to thoroughly assess the current electrical system in your home. This involves:
- Checking the electrical panel to see the amperage rating and noting if it is sufficient for your needs. Upgrading the panel may be necessary.
- Looking at the type of wiring - knob and tube, cloth-covered, etc. This will determine if a complete rewire is recommended.
- Testing outlets and switches for proper grounding. Ungrounded wiring will need to be addressed.
- Identifying potential safety hazards like overloaded circuits, exposed wiring, etc. These will need to be fixed.
- Considering any additions such as upgraded service, new circuits, or hardwired smoke detectors.
Making a detailed assessment helps create a rewiring plan and determine what work needs to be DIY versus hiring an electrician.
Create a Rewiring Plan
Based on the assessment, make a room-by-room plan for rewiring the entire home. Include:
- Which sections of wiring to replace first. Focus on hazardous areas first.
- Where to add new outlets, switches and lighting circuits.
- Installation of hardwired smoke detectors.
- Any special additions like wiring for ceiling fans, home theater setups, etc.
- How wiring will be run - through walls/ceilings or baseboards.
Having a detailed rewiring plan is crucial to finishing the project.
Handle Permitting and Inspections
Check with your local building department to determine if you need electrical permits and inspections for the project. Some key points:
- Permits are usually required whenever replacing the electrical service panel or installing new wiring circuits.
- Inspections will check for proper materials, safe installation methods and code compliance.
- Building inspectors can provide valuable advice to DIYers throughout the project.
- Failing to get permits and inspections can jeopardize home insurance coverage.
Handling permitting properly is important for safety and following the law.
Buy the Right Materials
For a DIY rewiring project, carefully choose the correct electrical materials:
- Wire - Use only copper wiring of sufficient gauge for the circuits. Have extra on hand.
- Conduit - Install new wiring inside rigid metal or flexible plastic conduit for protection.
- Boxes - Purchase electrical boxes for outlets, switches and junctions in the sizes you need.
- Devices - Buy spec-grade outlets, switches, breakers and other devices. Avoid low-cost items.
- Labels - To stay organized, label all wires and circuits clearly at both ends.
Purchasing quality materials from electrical supply houses instead of big box stores can save money in the long run. Shop sales and buy materials in bulk.
Safely Install the New Wiring
During the rewiring process:
- Shut off power and verify it is off before working on any circuits.
- Carefully remove old wiring once new circuits are in place.
- Secure new wiring using proper staples/fasteners every 2-3 feet.
- Make tight connections and double check them before turning power back on.
- Test all outlets and switches with a circuit tester before finishing.
Working carefully and methodically is crucial for safe wiring installation.
Consider Hiring an Electrician
Even if doing most of the project yourself, consider hiring an electrician for:
- The initial assessment - their experienced eye can find issues you might miss.
- Installing the new main electrical service panel - involves working with high amperage lines.
- Any complex wiring - homeowners can usually handle basic 15/20 amp circuits.
- Final inspection - an electrician can verify all work meets code requirements.
Strategically hiring a professional electrician for certain portions of the rewiring project can give you added safety assurances.
Rewiring a Home on a Budget Is Achievable
While rewiring an entire home is a major undertaking, it can be successfully accomplished yourself on a budget with the right planning and preparation. Taking it step-by-step and room-by-room, a homeowner can enhance safety, add new circuits, and save thousands of dollars in the process. Just be sure to always put safety first by securing permits, following codes, and using extreme caution when working with electrical wiring. With patience and care, you can rewire your home yourself and save big.