Introduction
Rewiring a home can be an intimidating task, but with proper planning and precautions, I have found that it can be done safely without hiring an electrician. As a homeowner looking to save money, I decided to take on this project myself. In this article, I will walk through all the steps I took to successfully rewire my home to modern electrical standards, while avoiding costly mistakes that could lead to electrocution or fire.
Reasons to Rewire
There were several factors that prompted me to rewire my outdated electrical system:
Safety
- My home still had cloth-wrapped wiring from the 1960s that was cracked and brittle - a major fire hazard
- The grounding system was insufficient, putting me at risk of shocks and making surge protectors useless
- I wanted GFCI outlets in wet areas like the kitchen and bathroom to prevent electrocution
Convenience
- There were not enough outlets in each room, requiring extension cords and power strips
- Lights and outlets were on the same circuit, so using an appliance would plunge rooms into darkness
- The fuse box needed upgrading to a modern circuit breaker panel
Efficiency
- Old wiring couldn't handle the power demands of modern devices and appliances
- Aluminum wiring from the 70s can cause safety issues and electrical fires
Resale Value
- Updated electrical improves home value significantly for potential buyers
- It brings the home up to the latest NEC safety standards
Researching and Planning the Rewire
Before starting a project of this scale, proper research and planning is crucial.
Permits
- I researched my local permitting requirements. In my area, homeowners can do their own electrical but need a permit and inspections
- I carefully read the permit application and contacted the building department with any questions
Estimating Cost and Time
- At each step, I estimated materials, tool rentals, and time required
- Rewiring an entire house is a big project - I budgeted several weekends
- I got quotes from electricians to compare costs
Safety Gear
- I invested in quality safety gear - gloves, glasses, sturdy shoes
- I outfitted my breaker box with arc flash safety gear like a shield
Existing Conditions
- I turned off power and removed cover plates to understand the existing wiring
- Taking photos along the way helped me keep track of everything
Code Research
- I studied the NEC code book and local amendments to ensure compliance
- Resources like pro tips blogs helped me avoid common code violations
Store Layout Software
- I used a free software called SweetHome 3D to layout circuits and placements for new outlets and lights
Removing Old Wiring
With proper planning completed, I was ready to get into the actual rewiring. Here are the key steps I followed to systematically remove the old electrical components:
Turn Off Power
- I turned off power at the main breaker and verified it was dead using a non-contact voltage tester
- I left the old fuse box in place so I could turn off individual circuits as needed
Remove Outlets and Switches
- I removed all outlets, switches and cover plates from the walls
- Each one was carefully labeled with painter's tape noting the location
Take Down Light Fixtures
- All light fixtures and ceiling fans were taken down and labeled
- For flush mounts I made a small hole and fed the wires into the attic
Detach Wires
- I detached all the wires from the outlets and switches
- Wires were clipped back and I used wire nuts to cap hot wires
Pull Wires Out
- Starting in the attic, I pulled the wires out of the walls and fed them down into the boxes
- This ensured wires were removed safely without leaving live wires behind
Remove Breaker Panel
- With all wiring disconnected, I removed the old fuse box
- My new circuit breaker panel would go in the same spot
Installing New Wiring
With the old wiring cleared out, I could start fresh with new wires. Safety was paramount, so I took it slow and was extremely diligent at each step.
New Breaker Panel
- Based on my load calculations, I chose a 125 amp main breaker panel
- I hired an electrician to connect the new panel to the utility feed
Cut Wall Holes
- Using a drywall saw, I cut holes between each stud where I needed to run wire
- Holes give access for drilling and fishing wires
Drill Holes
- I drilled holes in the wall studs using flexible drill bits
- Holes were drilled strategically to allow running wire to each outlet
Run Wires
- I used 14/2 NM cables for the 15 amp general lighting circuits
- For the 20 amp kitchen circuits I used thicker 12/2 NM cable
Junction Boxes
- Between runs I installed new junction boxes to connect wires
- This provides access points if any splices are needed
Outlet Boxes
- New remodeling boxes were installed for each outlet and switch
- For fire safety, I used metal nail-on boxes secured with clamps
Connect Switches and Outlets
- I fed the cables into each box and connected up the outlets and switches
- Devices were matched with the previous labeling to restore original layout
Cover Plates
- With outlets wired up, I installed new decorative cover plates
- Plates were matched to the style of the room for a seamless look
Lights and Fans
- Light fixtures were reinstalled at each location
- For ceiling fans, I used fan-rated boxes securely mounted to structure
Wrapping Up the Project
Once the new wiring was installed everywhere, I just needed to finish things up with testing, insulation, and permitting.
Testing Circuits
- I turned the power back on and tested each circuit using a receptacle tester
- This ensured all wiring was correct before insulating the walls
Insulate Walls
- Now that the walls were opened up, I took the opportunity to upgrade insulation
- This improves efficiency and also protects wires from damage
Install Walls and Trim
- Where I cut drywall, I installed backer boards and patched up holes with joint compound
- I replaced all the base trim to hide cut lines on the wall
Permitting and Inspection
- I completed the final permit paperwork and scheduled the required inspections
- The inspector went over the entire project and gave me the green light
Make Adjustments
- I fixed a couple minor issues flagged by the inspector
- This ensured I passed final inspection and got full approval
Outcome of My DIY Rewire
In the end, taking on this major electrical project myself saved me thousands in electrician fees. More importantly, I upgraded my home's electrical safety, efficiency, and functionality for decades to come. If you take proper safety precautions and do your homework, rewiring without an electrician is very feasible for a motivated DIYer. I'm so glad I tackled this project myself.