How to Rewire Your Home Without an Electrician to Save Money and Avoid Danger

Introduction

I have decided to take on the task of rewiring my home to save money. As exciting as a DIY home rewiring project sounds, it also comes with risks if I do not take the proper precautions. In this article, I will provide a step-by-step guide to rewiring a home safely without professional help.

Reasons to Rewire a Home

There are a few key reasons I have decided to rewire my home:

Upgrade to Meet Code

• Building codes change over time. Rewiring will bring my home up to the latest safety standards. This gives me peace of mind and increases my home's value.

Replace Old and Damaged Wiring

• Outdated wiring is a fire hazard. Rewiring will reduce the risk of electrical fires in my aging home.

Gain More Circuits and Outlets

• A rewire allows me to add more circuits and outlets. This will reduce the need for extension cords and make my home more convenient.

Increase Electrical Load Capacity

• New wiring will increase the electrical capacity of my home. This will allow me to run more high-wattage appliances without tripping breakers.

Dangers of a DIY Rewire Project

While I can save money doing my own electrical work, safety should be my top concern. Potential risks include:

Electrocution

• Accidental contact with live wires can result in serious injury or death by electrocution. I need to take precautions like turning off power at the breaker box.

Electrical Fires

• Faulty wiring can overheat and ignite fires within walls. Careful planning and high-quality materials reduce this risk.

Damaged Equipment

• Mistakes can fry expensive appliances and electronics. I should unplug devices before wiring nearby outlets.

Inadequate Grounding

• Improper grounding leaves my home vulnerable to power surges. I must ensure ground wires are properly installed.

Required Permits and Inspections

While tempting to skip, permits and inspections are crucial safety steps in a rewiring project:

• Electrical Permit - Verifies my plans meet local building codes. Requires passing final inspection.

• Building Permit - May be required if I alter home structure to run new wires.

• Inspection - An electrician will check my finished work for safety. I should schedule this before covering up walls.

Though permits add costs, they are worthwhile to ensure safety and future home value.

Steps to Rewire a Home

Here is an overview of the major steps involved in a total home rewiring project:

1. Create a Wiring Plan

• Map out placement of outlets, switches, lighting, and major appliances.

• Plan circuit routes and electrical box locations.

2. Obtain Permits

• Apply for necessary electrical and building permits.

• Only do work after permits are approved.

3. Turn Off Power and Remove Old Wiring

• Turn off power at the breaker box and verify it is dead.

• Remove existing outlets, switches and wiring from walls, attic, and basement.

4. Install New Wiring and Components

• Run new wires through framing and joists. Follow local codes for wire gauge and placement.

• Install new outlets, switches, breaker box, and grounding.

• Connect wiring to fixtures, appliances, equipment.

5. Schedule Inspection and Turn Power Back On

• Call to schedule an inspection once work is complete.

• Make any corrections noted in initial inspection.

• Turn power back on only after passing inspection.

Choosing the Right Wire Gauge

Selecting the proper wire gauge for a circuit is critical:

• Too small - Can overheat from too much electrical load. Increased fire risk.

• Too large - Wastes money on unnecessary copper wire. Still must meet minimum code requirements.

• Follow National Electric Code (NEC) guidelines based on:

• Circuit voltage (120 vs. 240)

• Continuous vs. intermittent current draw

• Expected power needs of equipment

• When in doubt, go a size larger for safety.

Installing New Outlets and Switches

Outlets and switches carry power throughout my home. Careful installation is essential:

• Turn off breaker and verify power is off before wiring!

• Use box extenders to set outlet boxes flush with finished wall surface.

• Secure wires tightly with screws on outlet or switch terminals. No loose connections.

• Follow codes for wire stripping length, box fill, and securing cables.

• Use caution not to pierce wires with screws or staples.

Grounding and GFCI Protection

Proper grounding and GFCI outlets prevent shocks and electrocution:

Grounding

• Connect bare copper ground wires to metal outlet boxes.

• Bond neutral and ground wires only in main breaker box. Keep separate otherwise.

GFCI Outlets

• Install GFCI outlets in bathrooms, kitchen, laundry, and other wet areas.

• Press test and reset buttons to verify protection circuit is functioning.

Hiring a Licensed Electrician

While I can legally wire my own home in many areas, hiring a pro may be wise:

Benefits of Hiring an Electrician

• Experience working safely around live electrical systems.

• Identify potential issues or code violations in existing wiring.

• Verify repairs meet all current building codes.

• Pass inspections on the first try.

Cost Factor

• Hiring an electrician costs $40-$100 per hour on average.

• But it prevents expensive mistakes and gives me peace of mind.

Conclusion

Rewiring a home without professional help can save thousands of dollars if done safely. While challenging, the project is manageable for a diligent DIYer. Following local building codes, using caution around electricity, and having work inspected assures my home will be wired to the highest standard. I am now equipped with the key steps and safety knowledge to confidently rewire my home.