Project sensible for a DIY?

[Tom Nicelley]

Hello All!,
I've recently bought an old house that needs an updating of the electrical system. It has a 100amp pushmatic service panel, and an addtional breaker box, but some circuits (lighting mostly) are still being run through a fuse box with post and knob wiring (maybe some old 2-wire cable also). I still need to hookup the spa (no spots left in either the service panel or the breaker box).

1) Am I correct in assuming that adding a 50amp circuit (spa), will be too much for this service panel?
2) Am I correct in assuming that the fuse box and the post/knob wiring needs replaced?
3) What types of electrical work are appropriate for the (somewhat experienced) DIY'er? I've done some simple wiring before (added a few ceiling fans, outlets, fished a few wires, and added the occasional circuit breaker), and feel fairly confident about wiring up switches & lights, but then again, I don't want to unknowingly overstep my abilities. Also, like most people, I'm on a tight budget!!

My plan was to have an electrician replace the service panel with a 200amp unit (and wire the existing circuits into the new breakers). Then, on my own time, I would fish the wires and replace the outdated fuse/post and knob circuits(and any 2 wire circuits), and complete these circuits into the new breaker box. Is this a "sensible" plan (i.e safe, but still saving money)?

Thanks,
Tom

[volts]

Tom: Don't be too awed by the extent of your revamping project. Just do what you think should be done, carefully and in workmanlike manner. Any improvements you do will be beneficial. Judging by your description, you'll sleep better after the old stuff is modernized and the 50a service is upgraded before the spa is installed.

[LazyPup]

I would like to make a recommendation. Before you take on a project of that scope get a copy of a book called "Code Check-Electrical) It is an illustrated quick reference of the National Electrical Code.

The book is published by Taunton Press and sells for about $20.

You will probably have to special order it through your local bookstore on online service.

CODE CHECH is a series of books on the differning building codes, Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, building, etc.

I find the books an invaluable source of quick reference.

[HayZee518]

At one time the knob and tube method of wiring was the safest type of wiring around, but people took advantage of the situation. A tap in here a tap in there and eventually the main line was overloaded - so they replaced all the 15 amp fuses with 30's. Not Good! In this day and age with all the accessories for the kitchen AND bathroom, even a 200 amp service might seem small, unless you go full bore - I doubt you'd blow the main! When you have the thing installed, take a look at the size wire the power company puts in. Your code calls for a 4/0-3 SEU cable that the contractor will supply. Power company will put in a size 4 or 2. Reason?? Three conductors in free air! Good Luck!