Introduction
Rewiring a home can be extremely dangerous if proper precautions are not taken. Electrical systems from the early 20th century can be hazardous and tricky to work with. In this article, I will share some lesser known safety tips and best practices from the 1900s to help you rewire your vintage home without electrocuting yourself.
Use Insulated Tools and Wear Protective Equipment
When working with electrical wiring, your body can act as a conduit for electricity if you touch live wires or terminals. Getting shocked can lead to severe injury or death.
Wear Thick Rubber Gloves
Thick rubber insulating gloves up to your elbows were commonly used by electricians in the early 1900s. The thick rubber prevents electricity from flowing through your body. Always wear thick rubber gloves when handling wiring.
Use Insulated Pliers and Screwdrivers
Regular metal tools can conduct electricity if they touch a live wire. Use screwdrivers and pliers with insulated rubber handles. The insulation prevents shocks.
Wear Safety Goggles and Work Boots
Safety goggles protect your eyes from sparks, and rubber-soled work boots prevent electrocution if you accidentally touch a live ground. Always wear goggles and boots when rewiring.
Work On The Power Off
Rewiring with the power on is extremely dangerous. Always turn off power at the main circuit breaker before starting any electrical work.
Double Check With a Voltage Tester
After turning off the main breaker, double check that power is off by testing outlets with a handheld voltage tester. The tester light should not glow if power is off.
Put Up Warning Signs
Place highly visible warning signs like "DANGER - DO NOT ENERGIZE" at the main breaker panel and anywhere else the power could accidentally be turned back on.
Only Work During Daylight
Rewiring by feel alone in the dark increases risk of shocks and electrocution. Only rewire when there is sufficient daylight or portable lighting.
Ensure Proper Grounding
Proper grounding of the electrical system through a ground wire provides a safe path for stray electrical current, preventing shocks.
Use Continuity Tester
Use a continuity tester to verify ground connections. There should be continuity between any ground pin and the ground wire.
Upgrade Old Two-Prong Outlets
Two-prong outlets without a ground should be upgraded to modern three-prong grounded outlets for safety. Rewire the circuit to add a ground conductor.
Ground To Water Pipes
As a temporary measure, ground wires can connect to water pipes, which connect to ground outside. But upgrading ungrounded wiring should be a priority.
Replace Old Cloth-Insulated Wiring
Early electrical systems used cloth-insulated wiring which breaks down over time, posing fire and shock risks.
Look For Cracked, Brittle Insulation
Carefully inspect the insulation on old wiring. Cracked or brittle insulation can expose bare conductors, causing shorts and shocks.
Replace Old Wiring With Modern NM Cable
Modern NM (nonmetallic) cable has silicone or PVC insulation that lasts decades. When rewiring, replace old cloth-insulated wire with 14/2 NM with ground.
Use Fire-Rated Materials
Replace wooden backboards with fire-rated plywood. Use metal outlet and switch boxes to contain sparks and overheating. Fire safety is crucial.
Work Slowly and Carefully
Rushing through an electrical project increases the risks. Always work slowly and deliberately.
Make a Detailed Plan
Map out each step of the rewiring in detail before starting. Visualize the entire process. Identify potential hazards.
Take Breaks
Frequent breaks prevent fatigue and allow you to re-focus. Take regular breaks during long rewiring jobs to maintain concentration. Rushing leads to mistakes.
Double Check Connections
Carefully inspect every connection after completing it. Tug on wires to verify tight connections and double check terminals are fully secured. Sloppy connections can cause fires.
Conclusion
While rewiring a vintage home comes with risks, taking proper precautions like wearing insulating gloves, turning the power off, upgrading old components, and working slowly and carefully can allow you to upgrade your wiring safely. Always put safety first, no matter how tedious. If in doubt, consult a professional electrician. Stay safe, and you can successfully rewire your old home without injury.