Introduction
Adding more outlets or increasing the capacity of your home's electrical system can provide convenient access to power for appliances and devices. However, working with electrical wiring carries risks if not done properly. This article provides a step-by-step guide to safely rewiring outlets in your home to handle more power, without creating fire hazards.
Determine if Your Home's Electrical System Can Handle More Load
Before making any changes, it's critical to understand the current capacity of your home's electrical system. Here are some key steps:
Calculate Total Power Draw of Devices
- Make a list of all electric devices, appliances, and tools used in the home. For high-power devices like air conditioners, water heaters, and large appliances, check rating labels for wattage.
- Add up the wattages to estimate total power draw. If you're planning to add new devices, include their wattage as well.
Identify Size of Existing Wiring and Breaker Capacity
- Check the gauge of existing wiring - thicker wires like 10 or 12 gauge can safely handle more power. Thin 14 gauge wires may be overloaded with added devices.
- Examine the main circuit breaker amperage rating. Know if your home has 100, 150, or 200 amp service. This determines the maximum power the system can deliver.
Consult an Electrician if Unsure
- If you're unfamiliar with calculating electrical loads, consult a licensed electrician. They can assess if your home's wiring can support more outlets and devices. This may save you from overloading the system.
Upgrade the Electrical Service Panel if Needed
If your existing wiring and breaker amperage are insufficient, a service panel upgrade is required for safely adding more outlets. Key steps include:
- An electrician will install a new breaker panel with higher amperage (200 amps or more). This provides extra power capacity.
- Electrical wiring from the utility connection to the panel will be replaced with thicker gauge wires.
- The grounding system may need beefing up as well.
Though expensive, a new service panel is essential to add circuits and outlets without creating fire and electrocution hazards. Never overload an underrated system.
Add New Circuits and Wiring
With adequate service capacity, you can add new 120V household circuits to supply additional outlets.
Determine Locations for New Outlets
- Decide where you need more electrical access, like in the kitchen for appliances or entertainment center for TVs and computers. Don't overload a single circuit.
- Space outlets evenly around rooms so multiple devices can plug in safely.
Pull and Connect New Wiring
- Run new 12 or 14 gauge NM (nonmetallic) cables from the breaker panel to outlet boxes. Avoid aluminum wiring which can be hazardous.
- Follow local codes for cable ratings, outlet spacing, grounding, and other standards. Underground feeder wires outside may require thicker gauge UF cable.
- Use junction boxes to split wiring to multiple outlets. Make secure electrical connections.
Install GFCI Outlets Near Water Sources
- For outlets near kitchen/bathroom sinks or outdoor areas, use GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) outlets for protection against electric shocks.
Label Breakers Clearly
- Label each new breaker and which outlets/rooms it controls. This aids safe circuit identification later.
Use High-Capacity Devices and Wiring for 240V Circuits
For large appliances requiring 240V power like electric dryers or AC condenser units, utilize heavier gauge wiring and higher amperage double-pole breakers.
- Use 10/4 awg cable and 30-50 amp breakers. Codes may specify hardwired connections rather than outlets.
- A licensed electrician should install 240V circuits, as improper wiring can damage appliances and create shock/fire hazards.
important safety tips
Rewiring outlets safely requires great care. Follow these tips:
- Turn off power at the main breaker before starting work. Verify it's off using a non-contact voltage tester.
- Use extreme caution drilling into walls to avoid hitting existing wires.
- Follow code for cable ratings, box fill limits, connections, and grounding.
- Make sure all electrical boxes, cover plates, and closures are securely installed to contain fires.
- Replace any old cracked or damaged wiring you find during the process.
- Use cable staples to securely fasten wires every 4-6 feet.
- Avoid overloading circuits by spreading device usage over multiple new circuits.
- Hire an electrician if any aspect of the rewiring is beyond your skill level.
Conclusion
Adding more outlets and higher electrical capacity in your home provides convenience and supports more technology and appliances. By first determining if your home's electrical system can handle the extra load, and following safe rewiring procedures and codes, you can upgrade your wiring without burning down the house! Be sensible about your DIY skills, and don't hesitate to call a professional electrician when needed.