Rewiring a home can seem like a daunting task, but with proper planning and safety precautions, it's possible for a homeowner to take on basic rewiring projects without the help of an electrician. I've rewired parts of my own home, and while challenging at times, the projects went smoothly and I saved a lot on labor costs. Here's my guide on how to rewire your home safely as a DIY project.
Research and Planning are Key
Before I start any electrical project, I spend time researching exactly what needs to be done and drawing up plans. Rushing into a rewiring job without understanding the electrical system can be dangerous. Here are some key things I research beforehand:
Electrical Code Requirements
- I study my local electrical code requirements so I know what is allowed for DIY homeowners. This ensures my work will pass inspection. Key things to check are rules on wiring gauge, junction box size, outlet spacing, etc.
Existing Electrical System
- I look at what circuits feed which parts of my house and map out the existing wiring routes. This prevents surprises mid-project.
Rewiring Plan
- Based on what needs upgrading, I draw up a detailed plan for running new wires and installing new outlets/switches. I think through how the new wiring will integrate with the existing system.
Thorough research and planning makes the rewiring process smoother. Rushing into electrical work blindly can cause fires or electrocution.
Use Proper Safety Gear and Tools
Rewiring a home involves working with live wires, so safety gear is a must. Here are some key items I use for every electrical project:
- Electrical gloves - Protects hands from accidental shocks
- Safety goggles - Prevents injuries from sparks or wire clippings hitting my eyes
- Voltage tester - Checks if wires are live before I work on them
- Wire stripper - Removes insulation cleanly without damaging wires
I also have a well-stocked toolkit with screwdrivers, pliers, wire cutters, cable staplers, drywall saw, and more. Using proper tools instead of makeshift ones improves safety and makes the rewiring process easier.
Turn Off Power to the Area Being Rewired
A common rookie mistake is trying to rewire an outlet or room while leaving the circuit breaker on. Before doing any electrical work, I always turn off power to that part of the home at the breaker box. I also test wires with a voltage tester before touching them, just to be doubly sure.
Working on live wires can easily start fires or cause severe shocks. Taking a few minutes to power down the area I'm rewiring protects me and my home.
Take Pictures Before Removing Any Wiring
Once the power is off, I take pictures of the existing wiring setup before altering anything. The photos give me a reference in case I get confused reconnecting wires later on.
I take pictures inside outlet and switch boxes to document which wires are connected. I also photograph the path of wire runs, like along the back of a baseboard. Having these shots helps me replicate or troubleshoot the existing wiring.
Run New Wiring According to Code
When running new wires, I'm careful to follow electrical code requirements. Here are some key guidelines I adhere to:
- Use the right wire gauge for the amperage on the circuit
- Use only approved cable staples to secure new wires, every 4-5 feet
- Leave enough extra wire in boxes to make secure connections
- Only use approved junction boxes of the correct size when splicing wires
Cutting corners on codes can jeopardize insurance coverage and create safety issues over time. I read up on requirements for my area and stick to them.
Connect New Wiring Properly
Splicing and connecting new wires is trickiest part of rewiring. I use wire nuts suited for the wire gauge and always pre-twist wires before securing nuts. To prevent loose connections, I tug on wires after nutting to confirm they are tight.
If wiring to a new outlet or switch, I securely fasten the wires around the screws, not just jammed into the back. Poor connections can arc, overheat, and start electrical fires. Doing it right takes a little extra time but gives me peace of mind.
Test Circuits Thoroughly Before Turning Power Back On
Once the new wiring is run and connected, I turn the power back on but leave the new section turned off at the breaker. I then methodically test that:
- Existing outlets and lights still function properly
- The new wires are live when tested with a voltage tester
- New outlets and switches controlled by the new wiring work properly
I also check for any smoking or hot spots indicating I've made a bad connection somewhere. Taking it slow and verifying everything works correctly before completing the job helps catch mistakes.
Consider Hiring an Electrician for Tricky Rewiring Jobs
While many home rewiring projects are totally DIY friendly, I'm careful not to overestimate my abilities. If a project involves the home's main service panel, heavy appliance circuits, or runs through difficult to access areas, I call in a professional electrician.
Paying an electrician is cheaper than if a fire or injury occurs due to my inexperience on complex jobs. I stick to simpler outlet and lighting circuit upgrades I'm comfortable handling. Know your limits.
Follow Safety Rules and You Can Do Basic Rewiring Yourself
Rewiring a home seems intimidating, but if you research first, use proper gear, follow electrical codes, and work safely, many projects can be DIYed without huge risk. I'm comfortable handling new outlets, switches, lighting, and appliances circuits in my home after learning the ropes. Just be smart and get professional help if needed.
Let me know if you have any other rewiring questions! I'm happy to share more electrical safety tips.