How to Identify Old Armored Electric Wire and Upgrade to New Fixtures

Introduction

If you are working with old electrical wiring in your home and attempting a do-it-yourself (DIY) upgrade, one of the major challenges can be determining whether a particular wire is live or not, and understanding the difference between old and new armored electric wires. This guide aims to simplify the process of identifying live wires and upgrading your lighting fixtures efficiently and safely.

Understanding the Components

When working with old armored electric wires, an important step is to determine which leg is the power source. This is critical for safety reasons. Here's how to do it:

Using a Voltage Touch Detector

A voltage touch detector is a useful tool in identifying energized wires. You can touch the detector to the wire and listen for a beeping sound or observe a digital display. The wire that emits a sound or displays a reading is the power source.

Identifying Neutral and Hot Wires

Once the power source (hot wire) is identified, you can use a multimeter or voltage touch detector to determine the neutral wire. Typically, the black wire is the hot wire, but in some installations, this may vary. To further confirm, you can check the ground wire. If the armor or bare ground is present, you can measure the ground to the hot wire using a multimeter. If the reading shows a difference, the black wire is likely the hot one.

Identifying Old Armored Wires

A significant change that occurred around the mid-1950s was the shift from old plastic insulation to newer, more durable plastic. Older plastic insulation tends to crumble over time, making it less reliable. In contrast, newer insulation is more robust and remains intact. Here are some visual cues to help you identify the type of insulation:

Visual Inspection for Old Insulation

Examine the wire for any signs of crumbling or flaking insulation. If the plastic is coming off, it is likely an old wire. Check for wires that appear to have insulating material that is brittle and easily broken.

Upgrading Your Electrical Lighting Fixtures

Replacing old electrical wiring and fixtures can significantly improve the safety and efficiency of your home's electrical system. Here are some steps to follow:

Preparation and Safety

Turn off the power at the circuit breaker before beginning any work.

Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and safety glasses.

Erect a safe work environment with proper lighting and tools within reach.

Replacing Old Wires

Ensure that the new wire insulation material is the same or better than the old. Use insulated wire connectors to join old and new wire segments for a secure connection. Once the new wiring is installed, test the system with a voltage tester to ensure proper functionality.

Installing New Fixtures

When installing new lighting fixtures, match the fixture's requirements with the existing wiring. Ensure proper grounding and adequate electrical capacity. Consider the color and size of the wires to match the fixture's mounting requirements.

Conclusion

Identifying old armored electric wires and upgrading your lighting fixtures can be a challenging but rewarding project. With the right tools and proper techniques, you can safely and effectively upgrade your home's electrical system. Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with any part of the process, it is always best to consult a professional electrician.

Additional Resources

For more information on electrical safety and DIY projects, you can visit the following resources: