Rewiring your home can seem like a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be done safely and efficiently. Here are some brilliant but little-known tricks to help you rewire your home like a pro.
Understanding Home Wiring Basics
Before diving into a rewiring project, it's important to understand some home wiring basics. This will ensure you take the right precautions and set up your new wiring properly.
Electrical Systems
There are two main electrical systems found in homes:
- 120/240-volt system - This system powers large appliances like air conditioners, electric dryers, and water heaters. It requires two hot wires, a neutral wire, and a ground wire.
- 120-volt system - This system powers lighting and most outlets. It requires one hot wire, one neutral wire, and one ground wire.
Knowing what system different parts of your home use will help guide your rewiring project.
Circuit Breakers vs Fuses
- Circuit breakers are the modern standard for home electrical panels. They automatically trip and shut off power when a circuit is overloaded. Simply flip the breaker back on to restore power.
- Fuses are outdated and need to be manually replaced when they blow. Rewiring is a good time to upgrade to a circuit breaker panel.
Wire Types
Common wire types include:
- Copper - Best for conducting electricity but more expensive. Typically used for wiring homes.
- Aluminum - More affordable but less conductive. Can be used for wiring but requires special connections.
- Armored cable (AC) - Encased in a metal covering for durability and protection. Used for wiring in walls.
Wire Gauges
- Thicker wires with a lower gauge (larger diameter) are best for conducting high amounts of electricity over longer distances.
- Thinner wires with a higher gauge are sufficient for shorter distances and lower power needs.
- 12 or 14 gauge is recommended for most home wiring.
Prep Before Rewiring
Completing the right prep work will ensure your rewiring project goes smoothly and safely. Be sure to:
Turn Off Power
- Turn off power at the main breaker panel before working on any wiring.
- Verify power is off by testing outlets with a multimeter or voltage tester.
- Failure to cut power can result in electrocution, sparks, fires, and tripped breakers.
Have the Right Tools
Gather essential tools like:
- Pliers, cutters, strippers - For manipulating wires and cutting/stripping their insulation
- Screwdrivers - For connecting wires to outlets and junction boxes
- Voltage tester - For verifying power is off
- Ladder - For accessing ceiling wires and lighting fixtures
Inspect and Plan
- Inspect your existing wiring setup and electrical panel.
- Identify problem areas that need upgraded wiring.
- Plan your new circuits carefully.
- Obtain any necessary permits.
Running New Wires
Running new wires is the crux of any rewiring project. Follow these tips to run wires safely and effectively:
Follow Codes
Adhere to all electrical and building codes for your region, especially regarding:
- Wire gauge for wire runs
- Number of conductors permitted in boxes
- Required grounding and GFCI protection
- Minimum box size for number of wires
Use Old Wires as Pull Strings
- When running new wires through finished walls, use the existing wires as pull strings.
- Tie a string to the old wire and pull it out when you pull the new wire in.
Fish Wires Through Walls
- Use long, flexible electrical fish tapes to pull wires through walls.
- Feed the tape through from one opening to another, tying on wires to pull through.
Label Wires
- Label wire ends to keep track of where they're running when rewiring room by room.
- For example, "2nd BR closet light" or "Kitchen outlets #1-3."
Installing New Outlets and Switches
Installing new electrical boxes and fixtures is key to a successful rewiring.
Install Boxes Properly
- Mount boxes securely into studs or blocking using screws at corners. Do not solely rely on clamps.
- Position boxes at least 1/4" back from the finished wall surface.
Use Box Extenders When Needed
- Use handy box extenders to move existing boxes further out from recessed surfaces.
- Allows you to reuse the box without having to cut into the wall.
Connect Switches Properly
- Connect switches in the hot line coming into the light.
- Do not interrupt the neutral or ground paths with a switch.
Update Fixtures and Covers
- Replace any outdated outlets, switches, or light fixtures.
- Use updated tamper resistant receptacles and weatherproof covers as needed.
Finishing Touches
The finishing touches will complete your rewiring project and restore full power.
Organize at the Panel
- Neatly arrange all the circuit breakers and wire connections in the panel.
- Ensure wires are properly sized for the breakers.
Create a Diagram
- Draw up a box diagram mapping all the new wiring circuits in the home.
- Store this near the breaker panel for easy reference.
Test Thoroughly
- Verify grounding and GFCI function in all outlets.
- Test every light and outlet to confirm proper operation.
With careful planning and attention to detail, you can tackle rewiring any home. Just take it one step at a time. Now you have the inside tips to do it like a seasoned pro!