Why Rewire Your Outlets?
Rewiring outlets in your home can provide several benefits:
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Safety - Outdated wiring can be a fire hazard. Rewiring with modern materials improves safety.
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Convenience - Adding more outlets, relocating them, or converting to grounded outlets improves usability.
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Efficiency - Upgrading to GFCI outlets adds protection from shocks. Replacing old two-prong outlets with grounded three-prong outlets means you can plug in modern electronics.
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Property value - Upgraded electrical improves home value when selling.
Dangers of DIY Electrical Work
However, there are risks working with electrical wiring yourself:
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Electrocution - Mistakes can result in serious injury or death by electrocution. Always turn off power at the breaker before working.
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Fire - Faulty wiring is a leading cause of electrical fires. Improper materials or connections can overheat and ignite.
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Legal issues - In most areas homeowners are allowed minor electrical work. But major rewiring may require a licensed electrician to meet code.
So weigh risks versus rewards before attempting home rewiring projects.
Rules for Rewiring Outlets Safely
Follow these rules to help avoid dangers when rewiring outlets yourself:
Turn Off Power
- Locate the main breaker box and switch the main breaker to OFF before starting work. Make sure all outlets are dead with a tester.
Use Caution Working Live
- If necessary to check wiring with power on, use extreme caution. Wear gloves, watch step, and use only one hand.
Use Proper Materials
- Use wire of sufficient gauge for the amperage rating. Upgrade to modern UL-certified materials.
Make Secure Connections
- Use wire strippers to prepare cable ends. Securely fasten wires with terminal screws or connectors.
Follow Codes and Permits
- Check local regulations. You may need permits for major rewiring requiring inspections.
Basic Home Electrical System
To rewire outlets, you need to understand basic home electrical systems:
Electrical Service Panel
The main service panel connects the whole system to utility power lines. This contains:
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Main breaker switch to shut off all power
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Individual circuit breakers regulating each circuit
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Neutral and ground buses wiring connects to
Wiring to Outlets
Cables run from the panel through walls and ceilings to outlets. Typically:
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14 or 12 gauge wires for 15 or 20 amp circuit
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Black hot, white neutral, bare ground
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Plastic or metal electrical boxes house connections
Devices and Fixtures
Outlets distribute power through homes to devices and fixtures:
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General purpose outlets
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GFCI outlets in wet areas
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Light fixtures, appliances, equipment
Steps to Rewire an Electrical Outlet
Follow these steps to safely rewire an outlet:
1. Turn Off Power
Shut off electricity at the main breaker panel before starting. Verify it's off using a non-contact voltage tester.
2. Remove Old Outlet
Take the cover plate off. Unscrew the outlet and pull it out of the electrical box.
3. Inspect Wiring
Check for corrosion and damage. Replace wiring if needed. Verify proper gauge and grounding.
4. Prepare Wires
Use strippers to remove insulation. Make sure at least 1/2" bare wire shows.
5. Connect Wires
Refer to wiring diagram. Securely fasten hot, neutral, ground wires to outlet screws or push-in ports.
6. Install New Outlet
Carefully place outlet in box, keeping wires in back. Screw it in securely.
7. Replace Cover
Attach outlet cover plate. Tightly screw it flush to wall with no gaps.
8. Restore Power
Turn back on the circuit breaker. Test outlet function and grounding.
Special Considerations
Some outlet wiring projects introduce additional steps or considerations:
GFCI Outlets
Test for proper function of the GFCI protection using the test/reset buttons after installing.
Three-Wire Cables
An electrician may be needed to install new grounded outlets if only two-wire cables exist.
Aluminum Wiring
Use special connectors and techniques when rewiring outlets with aluminum cable.
New Circuits and Outlets
Running new wiring for additional outlets requires entering attics or walls.
Conclusion
Rewiring outlets is very rewarding but also potentially dangerous. For large projects, hiring an electrician may be your safest option. But with good planning and safe practices, renovating the outlets in your home yourself can upgrade convenience and safety. Just be sure to turn the power off first!