How to Rewire Your Home Without Dying - Secret Techniques Used By Early Electricians

Assess the Electrical Work Required

Before I start any electrical work, I first assess what needs to be done. I evaluate which circuits or parts of my home need rewiring, and whether I want to fully rewire everything or just target specific problem areas. Knowing the scope of work allows me to plan accordingly and ensure I have the proper materials, tools, and knowledge.

Common Signs Electrical Wiring Needs Upgrading:

• Frequent tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
• Flickering lights
• Buzzing, sizzling, or cracking sounds from outlets
• Discolored wall plates
• Sparks from outlets
• Lights dimming when other devices turn on

Safety First

Rewiring a home comes with inherent dangers if proper precautions aren't taken. Safety should always be my top priority. Here are some key tips:

• Turn off power at the main circuit breaker panel - This ensures circuits I'm working on are dead and reduces risk of shock. I double check with a non-contact voltage tester.
• Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) - This includes safety goggles, gloves, long sleeves and pants. Make sure no skin is exposed.
• Use insulated tools - I only use tools designed for electrical work, with insulated grips and blades. Never use metal ladders or other conductive equipment.
• Work with a partner - Having someone who can call for help in an emergency is critical. We also use the buddy system when doing hazardous work.
• Install GFCIs - Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) shut off power in unsafe conditions and reduce risk of shock. I have them on all outlets near water sources and install them on any new wiring.

Planning the Rewiring Project

Proper planning prevents problems down the road. I take time to carefully plan each step before getting started:

• Map out all current circuits and labeling wires - Knowing what each wire powers allows me to systematically rewire one circuit at a time.
• Decide new wire size and type - Will I use 12 AWG or 14 AWG wire? Copper or aluminum? Romex or conduit? I select wire material/gauge based on intended use.
• Sketch new circuit layout - A rough diagram helps me envision the final wiring layout and required materials. I mark all outlet, switch and light locations.
• Label everything - I use a detailed labeling system while removing old wiring so I know what each wire controls. I also label all new wires I install.
• Plan work in logical stages - I work methodically in phases - removing old wiring, running new wires, then installing devices and fixtures.

Removing Old Wiring

With power off at the main breaker, I start by removing existing wiring:

• I take photos of wires before disconnecting anything, for reference.
• I use a voltage tester to double check there is no power.
• I disconnect wires from outlets, switches and appliances, carefully labeling each one.
• I pull wires out of boxes and conduit using fish tape or wire pulling tools.
• For old armored cable (AC wire), I use pliers and wire cutters to remove outer sheathing and access old wires.
• I either discard old wires or recycle copper wire for scrap value using wire strippers to remove insulation.

Running New Wires

Once old wires are removed, I measure and cut new wires to length:

• I plan circuits so lights, receptacles, appliances each have dedicated runs back to the panel.
• For long wire runs I keep wire lengths under 80 feet to prevent voltage drop. I size wires accordingly.
• I match wire size to circuit amperage - using 12 AWG for 20A circuits and 14 AWG for standard 15A circuits.
• I run either NM (Romex) through studs or THHN wires through conduit for exposed areas.
• I staple cables every 4-6 feet through studs per code requirements, being careful not to pierce insulation.
• I label each end of every wire run so circuits can be identified.

Installing New Devices and Fixtures

With all new wires run, I'm ready to install new receptacles, switches, lights and other devices:

• I connect wires to devices using proper splices and wire nuts. I ensure solid, tight connections.
• I match wire colors using black for hot, white for neutral, and bare copper for ground. This follows standard wiring color coding.
• I mount new electrical boxes securely into studs, ensuring wires are stuffed back into boxes to prevent damage.
• For lights, I hang fixtures from junction boxes and connect wires matching hot, neutral, ground.
• I install light switches ensuring they interrupt the hot wire and using suitable wallplates.
• I replace receptacles using GFCIs near water sources and special tamper-resistant outlets in homes with children.
• I label each circuit at the breaker once everything is installed. This allows easy identification later.

Testing and Turning Power Back On

Finally, I'm ready to test and turn everything on:

• I double check all connections are secure, no bare wire is exposed, and polarity is correct.
• I inspect the work thoroughly looking for any missed connections, unsecured wires, or issues.
• I turn the main breaker on and methodically test each circuit, verifying proper function of lights, outlets, and switches.
• I use a multimeter to verify correct voltage of 120v. on all wiring.
• For any problem circuits, I turn power back off and re-check every connection until the issue is found.
• Once all circuits are confirmed working properly, I button up all boxes, conduit, covers and fixtures.

Staying organized, following safety procedures, and planning the work in logical stages allows me to successfully rewire my home. Taking my time helps ensure everything functions properly for years to come. While rewiring a house involves hazards, with caution and the right precautions, the job can be completed safely.