I recently bought a house built in 1934, which underwent a 200 amp electrical panel upgrade in 2024. While changing out an outlet, my handyman discovered that the wiring is still wrapped in cloth. He suggested that the previous upgrade was pointless since the old wiring remains in place. When I contacted the electrician about rewiring some of the outlets and lights, he seemed hesitant, expressing concerns over the extensive work and potential wall damage. Instead, he recommended simply upgrading the outlets and light boxes to be up to code without replacing the wiring, estimating about two or three days of work at $110 per hour with low material costs. Given the home's age, is it sensible to update only the outlets and boxes without addressing the outdated wiring?
4 Answers
Honestly, just upgrade everything. The old wiring is likely to be the source of more problems, and you don’t want to cut corners on something as critical as electrical work. It’s better in the long run to do it all at once rather than piecemeal, which can lead to unexpected issues later.
Upgrading just the outlets and light boxes might be a temporary fix. Yes, it can be more cost-effective to swap out breakers for AFCI to reduce fire risks, but if the wiring is still old and deteriorating, you could be setting yourself up for problems later. Ideally, you want to replace the failing insulation to ensure safety. I'd suggest you get the electrician to clarify how their plan addresses these issues or should consider full rewiring in the long run.
If your house has a raised foundation, they might not have to cut too many holes during rewiring. It's an investment in safety, and even if it seems like a big job, it will ultimately save you worries in the future. Plus, consider getting more quotes to compare costs or having a plan laid out for your electrical setup before committing to any changes. It could help you justify the need for upgrades.
Honestly, you might want to re-think this approach. Sure, upgrading the outlets can help, but it won’t replace the old wiring that could be unsafe. Newer materials and safety standards matter a lot. Get another opinion and perhaps rewire where it’s accessible without tearing up too much. Some electricians are just cautious about plaster repairs and such, but sticking with the old setup isn't ideal.
Exactly! I dealt with a similar issue, and trust me, you don’t want to risk using old wiring — it can lead to all kinds of headaches down the road.