How to Rewire Your Outlets for Higher Efficiency Without an Electrician

Introduction

Rewiring your home's electrical outlets can help provide higher efficiency and allow you to add more outlets as needed. With some basic tools and safety precautions, this is a do-it-yourself project that does not require hiring an electrician.

Properly rewiring outlets is not difficult, but it does require following important safety guidelines. This article will walk you through the complete process to help you successfully and safely rewire outlets for higher efficiency on your own.

Reasons to Rewire Outlets

There are a few key reasons why you may want to rewire electrical outlets in your home:

Upgrade to GFCI Outlets

GFCI, or ground fault circuit interrupter, outlets are an important upgrade from standard outlets. GFCI outlets help prevent electric shocks by quickly shutting off electricity if an imbalance in the current is detected.

Rewiring with GFCI outlets adds an extra layer of protection, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, laundry rooms, and other areas where water exposure is common.

Switch to Tamper-Resistant Outlets

Tamper-resistant outlets are now required by code in all new constructions. Unlike standard outlets, tamper-resistant outlets have a built-in shutter system to prevent foreign objects from being inserted.

This safety feature makes tamper-resistant outlets ideal in homes with small children. Rewiring offers an opportunity to upgrade all your existing outlets.

Increase Number of Outlets

Rewiring also allows you to add more outlets to rooms as needed. With increased use of electronics and smart devices, having more outlets can be extremely helpful. The wiring process remains the same whether you are replacing existing outlets or adding new ones.

Improve Efficiency

Finally, rewiring with updated outlet styles and materials can provide improved electrical efficiency. Newer outlet designs and copper wiring help minimize energy loss.

Electrical Safety Tips

Working with electrical wiring can be extremely dangerous if safety precautions are not followed. Here are some key tips:

• Turn off power supply - This is an absolute must! Turn off power at the main breaker panel before starting any electrical work.

• Use a voltage tester - Double check power is off by testing outlets with a voltage tester. This inexpensive tool can save your life.

• Work carefully - Avoid working on live wires as much as possible. Take it slowly and be cautious when handling wiring.

• Wear safety gear - Use insulated gloves, safety goggles, long sleeves and other protection to prevent accidental shocks.

• Make sure wiring is correct - Double check wire connections before restoring power. Incorrect wiring can lead to fires or electrocution.

• Get help if needed - If you are ever uncertain or feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to call an electrician. Safety should always be the top priority.

Supplies Needed

You don't need much equipment for a basic outlet rewiring project. Here are the key supplies:

• Voltage tester - To confirm power is off before starting work

• Screwdrivers - Both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers

• Wire strippers - For stripping insulation from wires

• Electrical tape - Used to insulate wire connections

• Wire nuts - For joining copper wires together

• Outlet tester - Used at the end to confirm correct wiring

• Replacement outlets - GFCI, tamper-resistant, or standard styles

• Pigtails / Short wires - Used for connecting outlets in series

• Safety gear - Insulated gloves, goggles, long sleeve shirt, etc.

How to Rewire an Electrical Outlet

Once you have turned off power and gathered supplies, follow these steps to rewire an outlet:

1. Remove the Existing Outlet

• Unscrew and remove the cover plate from the outlet.

• Unscrew the top and bottom mounting screws to detach the outlet from the electrical box.

• Carefully pull the outlet out from the box while leaving wires connected.

2. Disconnect Wires

• There will be multiple wires attached to the outlet with screw terminals or push-in connections.

• Disconnect the wires one at a time using needle nose pliers. Do not let wires fall back into the box.

• Take note of each wire connection to help with rewiring. There may be up to five wires:

• Hot feed (typically black)

• Neutral feed (typically white)

• Ground wire (typically bare copper)

• Hot wire to next outlet

• Neutral wire to next outlet

3. Prepare New Outlet for Wiring

• Strip about 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire using wire strippers.

• For push-in connection outlets, no stripping may be needed if wires are already trimmed properly.

• Line up ground, neutral, and hot wires ready for reconnection.

4. Connect Wires to New Outlet

• Hot and neutral wires from the supply cables should be connected to the matching hot and neutral brass terminals on the outlet.

• The outgoing hot and neutral wires to the next outlet go to the other hot and neutral terminals.

• The ground wire is connected to the green ground screw on the outlet.

• Wrap connections clockwise with electrical tape for a secure hold.

• Double check connections are tight and matched correctly.

5. Mount New Outlet in Box

• Carefully fold wired connections back into the electrical box.

• Secure the outlet in the box using the mounting screws.

• Attach the cover plate.

• Do not restore power yet! Proceed to testing.

Testing Rewired Outlets

Take the time to thoroughly test outlets before turning power back on:

• Visual inspection - Verify all wires are securely connected and properly insulated.

• Test with outlet tester - Plug tester into outlet and verify lights indicate correct wiring.

• Test GFCI outlets - Push the "Test" button after installation to confirm the GFCI trips properly. Reset for use.

• Check for loose connections - Loose connections can lead to overheating and fires.

Only restore power once wiring passes inspection. Feel outlets for warmth after energizing to confirm no issues.

Conclusion

Rewiring outlets may sound intimidating, but taking proper safety steps makes it a manageable DIY project. The process involves:

• Turning off power and gathering supplies
• Removing the existing outlet
• Disconnecting and noting all wires
• Connecting wires to the new outlet
• Securing the new outlet in the box
• Thoroughly testing wiring before turning power back on

Paying close attention to electrical safety and carefully following wiring procedures will lead you to success. Just take your time, and you can reap the benefits of rewired outlets providing higher efficiency, safety, and convenience in your home.