Rewiring your home can be a daunting task, but also a necessary one if your electrical system is outdated or unsafe. As a homeowner, I want to tackle this project to upgrade my home's wiring, but I also want to avoid the common pitfalls and mistakes. In my research and planning, I've learned that there are 7 key mistakes that many electricians make during rewiring that I need to watch out for. By being aware of these issues, I can ensure my rewiring project goes smoothly and safely.
Mistake #1: Not Getting the Proper Permits and Inspections
One of the biggest mistakes is not getting the right permits and inspections done. Anytime I'm doing major electrical work, it's crucial that I get the project permitted and inspected according to local building codes. Skipping permits and inspections can lead to:
- Safety hazards - Without proper oversight, critical safety issues could be overlooked.
- Legal issues - I could be fined for doing unpermitted work.
- Insurance problems - My insurance may refuse to cover any damages if the work was unpermitted.
To avoid this, I'll be sure to research my local permitting process and schedule all necessary inspections for each stage of the rewiring. This ensures my project meets all safety and legal requirements.
Mistake #2: Using the Wrong Wire Gauge
Selecting the proper wire gauge (thickness) is extremely important for safety and performance. If the wires are too small, they can overheat and cause a fire hazard. But wires that are unnecessarily large are expensive and waste space.
To determine the right wire gauge, I need to consider:
- Circuit amperage - Standard 15 amp household circuits need 14 AWG wire. 20 amp circuits require 12 AWG.
- Wire length - Longer wire runs may need thicker wires to avoid voltage drop.
- Applicable codes - My local electrical code will specify the required wire gauges.
I'll consult the necessary guides and code books to select the ideal wire gauge for each circuit I'm installing. This prevents wasted money on oversized wires or unsafe undersized wires.
Mistake #3: Using the Wrong Wiring Methods
Today there are many types of wiring methods and materials to choose from:
- Nonmetallic (NM) cable - This standard insulated copper wire is common for homes.
- Conduit - Metal or PVC piping that protects wires. Conduit is used for exposed wiring.
- Armored cable (AC) - Extra protected wiring for hazardous locations.
It's important to use the right wiring method for each application:
- NM cable for normal concealed household wiring.
- Conduit for workshops, basements, and exposed wiring.
- AC cable for outdoor wiring or wet areas.
If the wrong wiring method is used, the wires may not be sufficiently protected. I'll consult local codes to ensure I use approved wiring materials in the appropriate locations.
Mistake #4: Inadequate Boxes and Junctions
The boxes and junction points that connect my home's wires need to be suitable for the number of wires and connections they contain. If a box is too small, the wires will be cramped and it makes connections difficult. However, oversized boxes are unnecessarily costly.
When installing boxes and junctions, I'll watch out for:
- Small boxes - They should be replaced with a larger size to fit all the wires.
- Overcrowding - No more than 4-6 wires should be in a standard box. More wires calls for a bigger box.
- Tight connections - Wires should have space and not be tightly twisted together.
Taking the time to install adequate boxes and junctions will prevent electrical faults and fires. I'll size all my boxes according to local code requirements.
Mistake #5: Not Labeling the Circuit Breakers
With a rewired home, all the circuit breakers in my electrical panel will be new. If I don't take the time to properly label each circuit breaker, it will cause issues down the road.
To avoid confusion, I will:
- Map out all circuits - Trace each wire run and note what it powers.
- Use descriptive labels - For example, "Kitchen Lights" instead of "Circuit 1."
- Mark amperage - Note the circuit capacity like "15A" on the label.
Taking these steps to accurately label every circuit breaker will make my home's electrical system easier to navigate in the future. I'll be able to quickly shut off the proper breaker if needed.
Mistake #6: Improper Lighting Circuit Layout
For the lighting circuits in my home, I need to be mindful of how switches control various lights. Planning this carefully will avoid issues like:
- Lights controlled by multiple switches - This can be frustrating and confusing.
- Odd lighting combinations - Such as outdoor lights on an indoor circuit.
To avoid problems, I will:
- Map planned lighting circuits - Draw each lighting circuit separately. Note which lights are paired on each switch.
- Group lights logically - All outdoor lights should be together on one circuit, for example.
- Separate switched plugs - Any switched outlets should be on their own circuit, not sharing it with lights.
Putting this upfront thought into the lighting circuit layout will provide smarter lighting control through my home.
Mistake #7: Forgetting Arc-Fault and GFCI Protection
Modern electrical codes require arc-fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) and ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) in many circumstances to prevent fires and shocks. It's crucial I don't forget to install these important safety devices.
I'll be careful to install:
- AFCIs - On almost all 15 and 20 amp general lighting and receptacle circuits.
- GFCIs - For all kitchen and bathroom receptacles, as well as outdoor outlets.
Installing the proper AFCI and GFCI devices is a simple way to make my rewired home significantly safer. I'll double check that all required locations have them.
By being aware of these 7 key mistakes, I can avoid the common pitfalls of home rewiring projects. Paying attention to permits, wire gauges, wiring methods, junction boxes, labels, lighting layout, and safety devices will ensure my home's new electrical system is safe, functional and built to last. Knowing what to watch out for will give me the confidence to successfully take on this important project.