Assess the Existing Electrical System
Before beginning any rewiring project in a home over 100 years old, it is crucial to thoroughly assess the existing electrical system. Here are some key steps:
Consult an Electrician
- I highly recommend consulting a licensed electrician before touching any wiring in an antique home. They can inspect the existing wiring and electrical components to identify any immediate fire or shock hazards. An electrician can also advise on the best approach to a full rewire.
Check the Electrical Panel/Fuse Box
- Open up and inspect the electrical panel or fuse box. Are the circuits overloaded with too many appliances? This can cause wires to overheat. Check that circuit breakers or fuses are appropriately sized. Also look for signs of corrosion or damage.
Identify Knob and Tube Wiring
- Knob and tube wiring was commonly used in homes built before 1950. Check the attic, basement, and walls for the ceramic knobs and tubes. This old wiring is unsuitable for modern electrical loads and must be completely removed or replaced.
Test Outlets and Fixtures
- Plug in a lamp or appliance and turn it on at each outlet to verify it is working and not sparking or flickering. Check light fixtures for heat damage. Use a voltage tester to check for adequate power.
Document all Hazards
- Make detailed notes on the locations of any fire hazards, overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or outlets/fixtures that need replacement. This will inform your rewiring plan.
Develop a Rewiring Plan
Once I have thoroughly assessed the electrical system, it's time to develop a detailed rewiring plan. Key factors include:
Prioritize the Most Hazardous Areas
- Focus first on fully rewiring rooms or circuits with the most urgent hazards like exposed live wires or knob and tube wiring. This eliminates immediate fire risks.
Decide: Full Rewire vs Circuit by Circuit
- A full rewire replaces all wiring in the home for maximum safety. But rewiring circuit by circuit is more affordable. Consult an electrician on the best approach.
Develop a Room by Room Plan
- Create a room by room plan for running updated wiring to all outlets and fixtures. Map where to fish wires through walls and the attic.
Determine Load Requirements
- Factor in the wattage of appliances and electronics that will be on each circuit to determine the required wire gauge and breaker size. This avoids overloading circuits.
Upgrade the Electrical Panel
- An updated main electrical panel with sufficient circuits and capacity is a must. Consult an electrician on selecting the right panel.
Budget and Electrician Assistance
- Factor in costs of materials and electrician time if hiring help. Rewiring a whole home can easily cost over $10,000. Create a detailed budget.
Safety Precautions During Rewiring
When taking on a rewiring project, safety should be my top priority. Advance preparation and caution during the work helps avoid fires or electrocution hazards:
Turn Off Power at Main Breaker Panel
- Shutting off all power at the main breaker panel prevents getting shocked and reduces fire risks. Never handle wires while the circuit is live.
Work Slowly and Carefully
- Rushing leads to mistakes. Take my time disconnecting old wiring and connecting new wires properly. Double check my work.
Wear Insulated Gloves and Eye Protection
- Wearing rubber insulated gloves and safety goggles reduces risk of shocks or eye injuries from sparks or loose wires.
Use Non-Conductive Fiberglass Ladders
- Metal ladders can conduct electricity right to my body. Use only fiberglass ladders to avoid electrocution when working in the attic near wiring.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy
- Although preventive measures are taken, it's wise to keep an ABC fire extinguisher nearby in case a spark ignites insulation or framing.
Hire an Electrician If Unsure
- Attempting complex electrical work without training risks disastrous mistakes. If uncertain on any stage of the rewiring, consult or hire a licensed electrician.
Final Testing and Safety Checks
Once the rewiring is complete, thorough testing helps verify full safety before turning the power back on:
Check for Exposed Wires
- Walk through the home to check that all wiring is properly secured and no bare copper is exposed that could cause dangerous shorts.
Use a Voltage Tester
- With the main breaker still off, use a non-contact voltage tester near each wire and junction box to confirm wires are de-energized.
Inspect All Connections
- Remove each outlet and switch cover to visually inspect that hot, neutral and ground wires are properly connected. Tug on wires to confirm tight connections.
Turn Power Back On Gradually
- Flip the main breaker on, but leave circuits off. Turn on each circuit one at a time, verifying outlets are working properly.
Check Function of GFCIs and AFCIs
- Test that all ground fault circuit interrupters and arc fault circuit interrupters installed are working by pressing their test buttons.
By following meticulous safety practices and testing, I can ensure my 130 year old home's electrical system is updated and safe for modern use without risking disastrous fires. Hiring a professional electrician provides an extra layer of safety.