Replacing out of code ground wires in an older home

Ozzie2341 · 05-06-2011, 11:44 AM

I just purchased an older home (circa 1955) which has a fuse box. I'm working with a licensed electrician to get an estimate to switch out the fuse box for breakers. However, I've also discovered that the house has a ground wire to all of the outlets that is not up to code. What's the best, easiest way to replace that wire without taking out my drywall?

ReiKo · 05-06-2011, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ozzie2341

I just purchased an older home (circa 1955) which has a fuse box. I'm working with a licensed electrician to get an estimate to switch out the fuse box for breakers. However, I've also discovered that the house has a ground wire to all of the outlets that is not up to code. What's the best, easiest way to replace that wire without taking out my drywall?

I'm in the same boat you are right now but my box has already been convereted to breakers... Just no ground wires...

a7ecorsair · 05-06-2011, 12:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ozzie2341

I just purchased an older home (circa 1955) which has a fuse box. I'm working with a licensed electrician to get an estimate to switch out the fuse box for breakers. However, I've also discovered that the house has a ground wire to all of the outlets that is not up to code. What's the best, easiest way to replace that wire without taking out my drywall?

You need to tell us if the wiring is cable (romex) or wire in conduit. You also mentioned that there is a ground wire but not up to code so I'm assume this means current code. Is your wiring copper? Is the ground wire not up to code because it is one size smaller than the conducting wires?

joed · 05-06-2011, 12:59 PM

If you are referring the the ground wire on each branch circuit then you don't have to do anything. It will be fine as it is. The grounding system for the new panel will need to be current code however.