Why Rewire Your Outlets?

Rewiring electrical outlets in your home can provide several benefits:

• Safety: Outdated wiring can present fire and shock hazards. Rewiring with modern materials brings things up to code.

• Convenience: Adding more outlets, upgrading to GFCIs, installing USB ports, etc. Improves functionality.

• Efficiency: Replacing old 2-prong outlets with properly grounded 3-prong outlets allows newer devices to operate safely.

• Aesthetics: Upgrading from old, cracked, or painted-over outlets and plates gives a more modern look.

Dangers of DIY Electrical Work

Before beginning, understand the risks associated with home electrical projects:

• Electric shock: Faulty wiring can energize metal components that you may touch, resulting in serious injury or death.

• Electrocution: Extension cords, water near outlets, damaged insulation, and other hazards can prove fatal. Shut off power at the breaker before working.

• Fire: Overloaded circuits, loose connections, and incorrectly installed wires can overheat and ignite fires. Use materials rated for the appropriate load.

• Damage: Mistakes can destroy electrical and electronic equipment, appliances, and devices. Hire an electrician if you lack experience.

Preparing to Rewire Outlets

Follow these steps before working on any outlets:

Assess Existing Wiring

• Note 2-prong or 3-prong outlets and age of electrical system. Look for knob and tube wiring which should always be upgraded.

• Check for grounded (3-prong) outlets by plugging in a tester. Ungrounded outlets will need GFCI protection or rewiring.

Turn Off Power

• Locate the main breaker panel and flip the main circuit breaker off. Verify power is off using a non-contact voltage tester.

Gather Materials

• Replacement outlets and matching electrical boxes, covers, and wall plates
• 14/2 or 12/2 NM cable for 15A or 20A household circuits
• Wire stripper, cable ripper, screwdrivers, voltmeter, other tools
• GFCI outlets if ungrounded wiring exists

Safety Gear

• Wear safety glasses, gloves, long sleeves, and non-conductive shoes when working with electrical.

Rewiring an Electrical Outlet

Follow these step-by-step instructions to safely rewire an outlet:

1. Turn Off Power at Breaker

Double check that the outlet is not live using a non-contact voltage tester. Test after flipping breaker off.

2. Remove Old Outlet

Unscrew the cover plate and outlet from the electrical box and disconnect wires. Note existing wire colors and terminal screw locations.

3. Install New Electrical Box (If Needed)

Outlet boxes wear out over time. Replace damaged boxes with a new metal or plastic one matching the wall depth. Secure it with screws.

4. Feed Cable into Box

Bring the replacement NM cable into the back of the box through one of the knockouts. Leave 6 inches of extra wire at the box.

5. Connect Wires

Match wire color codes and terminal screw locations from the old outlet. Wrap clockwise around screws and tighten securely.

• Black wire → Brass screw (hot)
• White wire → Silver screw (neutral)
• Green / bare wire → Green screw (ground)

6. Install New Outlet

Line up the outlet holes with the electrical box screws and securely fasten into place along with the cover plate.

7. Test and Restore Power

Turn the breaker back on. Verify outlet is wired correctly using a tester and by plugging in a lamp. Then turn the breaker back off.

8. Connect Additional Outlets

Use cable clamps and anti-short bushings when running multiple outlets off the same circuit. Follow code for box fill limits.

Special Considerations

Certain situations require additional safety steps or rewiring options:

• For bathrooms or other wet areas, use a GFCI outlet or breaker. Test monthly by pressing the "Test" button which should trip circuit.

• For kitchen counter outlets, use "tamper-resistant" (TR) outlets with spring-loaded shutter mechanisms.

• For old knob and tube wiring, consult an electrician. This outdated wiring needs full replacement.

• For overloaded circuits, run new wiring to distribute appliances across more circuits. Follow code for max capacity.

• For ungrounded systems, either rewire with modern cables or install GFCI outlets which don't require grounding.

• For light switches, follow diagrams to determine hot vs. neutral wires. Take pictures before disconnecting.

When to Call an Electrician

While basic outlets are within DIY capabilities, more complex projects or fixes involving the main service panel, heavy appliances or voltage > 250V may require a licensed electrician. When in doubt, call a professional.

Conclusion

Rewiring outlets is a worthwhile DIY project to enhance your home's functions and safety. With proper materials and safe procedures, you can save on electrician fees. However, use caution and seek help when needed, as electrical mistakes can be costly or deadly. Take it slow and double check everything.