Introduction
Rewiring a home can seem like a daunting task, especially for those without electrical experience. However, with proper planning, safety precautions, and the right tools, even the electrically challenged can rewire their home successfully without burning it down. As someone who has tackled home rewiring projects before, I've learned a lot about how to do it right. In this comprehensive guide, I'll share everything you need to know to rewire your home safely.
Safety First - Turn Off Power and Use Protective Equipment
Before touching a single wire, the first and most critical step is to shut off power to the area you'll be working on. Locate the main circuit breaker panel and flip the main switch to the "off" position. Then, flip the individual circuit breakers to "off" for the specific circuits you'll be rewiring. Verify power is off by turning on a light or testing an outlet in the work area.
It's also essential to wear protective equipment when handling electrical wiring:
- Insulated gloves to prevent shocks
- Safety goggles to protect your eyes from debris
- A non-conductive ladder if working in the ceiling
Gather the Right Rewiring Supplies
To make sure your wiring meets code, you'll need:
- UL-certified electrical wire in the correct gauge for the amperage on the circuit
- Wire strippers to remove insulation
- Voltage tester to double check power is off
- Cable staples or ties to secure new wire
- Wire nuts to connect wires
- Electrical tape for insulation
- Conduit if running wire through walls
The necessary wire gauge depends on the circuit's amperage:
- 15 amp circuits = 14 gauge wire
- 20 amp circuits = 12 gauge wire
- 30 to 50 amp circuits = 10 gauge wire
Getting the right supplies will streamline the rewiring process.
Running New Wires - Plan the Pathways
Before running any new wires, you'll need to map out the pathways they will follow. Consider:
- Will they go through conduits in walls and ceilings?
- Will sections be exposed and need to run along baseboards?
- Will they go through drilled holes in wall studs and joists?
Also factor in how to run wires to any new outlets or switches you may be adding.
Planning wire routing in advance prevents dangerous loose wires and maintains code compliance.
Pulling and Securing New Wires
When ready to run new wires, here are some tips:
- Keep wires neatly bundled and use cable ties/staples every 1-2 feet for security and organization.
- Avoid pulling too tight or allowing kinks which could damage the insulation.
- Use wire lubricant if pulling through long conduit runs to reduce friction.
- Label each end clearly so you know what circuit it corresponds to.
- Leave 10-12 inches of extra wire at outlets and switch boxes.
Taking it slow and careful here greatly reduces the chance of loose connections and faults down the line.
Connecting New Wires Properly
One of the trickiest parts is safely connecting the new wires at outlets, switches and the circuit breaker panel.
To make solid connections:
- Shut off power at the breaker before working. Double check with a voltage tester.
- Strip insulation properly using wire strippers - avoid nicking copper.
- Pre-twist wires going into connectors.
- Use pliers to tighten connectors firmly. Loose connections can ignite from arcs.
- Wrap connections thoroughly with electrical tape for insulation.
Thoroughly inspect each connection before re-energizing the circuit. Loose connections account for many electrical fires.
Testing and Turning Power Back On
Once all new wires are run and connected properly, it's time to test and turn the power back on.
- At the panel, turn the main power back on, followed by any individual circuit breakers.
- At each outlet, switch on the circuit and test with a multimeter or voltage tester to make sure it's live.
- Press test buttons on GFCIs and AFCIs to verify proper function after wiring to the breaker.
- Replace cover plates.
- Power on lights, appliances, and other devices on each circuit to ensure proper operation.
If anything is non-functional, thoroughly re-check connections and wiring. Use caution when energizing circuits for the first time.
Calling a Professional Electrician
While many basic rewiring projects can be DIY if you take precautions, it's best to call a licensed electrician for:
- Service panel upgrades - Requires expertise to size and install properly.
- 240V circuits - Higher voltage requires licenced electrician in many areas.
- Whole house rewiring - Labor intensive and may require full re-inspection.
Pros have years of training and can work much faster. They also carry liability insurance if anything goes wrong. For large projects, the cost is well worth it.
Rewiring your home is very rewarding when done safely. Follow this guide and you can tackle projects like a pro. Stay tuned for my next article on common home electrical repairs you can do yourself. Let me know if you have any other questions!