Basic Residential Electrical
Basic Residential Electrical
In late 2018, I helped a friend fully rewire the first and second floors of a rental property he owns. The original wiring was outdated aluminum, so we replaced it entirely with modern copper wiring to improve safety and meet current electrical standards. This was a fast-paced, hands-on project that required both demolition and installation skills, as well as a focus on efficiency to complete the work within a tight timeframe.
My role included removing drywall to access old wiring, uninstalling outdated components, and running new copper wiring throughout the two floors. I also installed new outlet and switch boxes, light fixtures, and wall switches, ensuring everything was securely mounted and ready for use. By handling all wiring up to the breaker box, we streamlined the workflow for the licensed electrician who would later connect the new system.
The tools I used ranged from demolition gear like hammers and crowbars to installation tools like drills, sawzalls, and even a rope improvised as fish tape. Careful routing of wires through new studs without compromising their structural integrity was one of the most important aspects of the job. We measured wire runs precisely to stretch our tight budget without sacrificing safety or compliance.
One of the biggest challenges was running wiring between floors while keeping the layout clean and organized. I learned valuable techniques for cable routing, ensuring outlets, switches, and lights were positioned logically and consistently throughout the house. We also took the opportunity to run Ethernet cabling, leveraging skills I already had from previous networking projects.
By the end of the first day, all wiring and fixtures were installed, and on the second day we focused on thorough site cleanup to prepare for drywall installation. The work passed inspection from the electrician who installed the new breaker box, confirming that our wiring met both functional and safety requirements.
This project deepened my understanding of residential electrical work and strengthened my ability to collaborate effectively on fast-moving renovations. From demolition to precise installation, I gained experience in both the technical and logistical aspects of a full wiring replacement — all completed in just a day and a half.