What is Knob + Tube Wiring? Why Should Homeowners Upgrade It?
Knob and tube wiring has a lifespan, roughly 60 years. Knob and tube wiring was widely used from the late 1880s to the 1940s, even into homes built in the 1950s. Knob and tube wiring has copper conductors covered with cloth and rubber insulation. This early home electrical set-up used porcelain knobs to secure wires and ceramic tubes to protect them as they passed through wooden framing. Innovative for its time, knob and tube wiring is obsolete for the electrical demands of modern homes and can increase risk of fires and electrical hazards.
Why homeowners should upgrade knob + tube wiring soon:
Fire Safety Risks
Knob and tube wiring was never designed to handle the increasing electrical demands of modern household loads, i.e. heavy appliances, lighting control systems and electronic devices. Overloaded circuits can overheat, increasing the risk of electrical fires.
Lack of Grounding
Modern electrical systems come with standard safety features that rely on proper grounding systems and electrical connections. Knob and tube wiring does not have ground wires. Without proper grounding to safely direct excess electricity, there is an increased risk of electric shock, power surges and damage to sensitive electronics.
Aging, Deterioration
The insulation used in knob and tube wiring was often made of cloth and rubber, which can become brittle, crack or break down over time. Exposed wires lead to short circuits, sparking and fires.
Modification
Often owners attempt to modify or repair knob and tube wiring themselves, often using incorrect methods or materials. DIY modifications by homeowners or unlicensed electricians are not safe and code compliant. Modified knob and tube wiring and can result in inspection violations, electrical hazards like shocks, short circuits and fires.
Insurance, Home Value
Many insurance companies won’t insure homes with knob and tube wiring or will charge higher premiums due to the increased hazard risk. Outdated wiring can lower property value and often complicate home sales.
Understanding the danger of knob and tube wiring is key to your home safety. If you have knob and tube wiring, the best course of action is to upgrade your electrical system to modern standards. A licensed, professional electrician can inspect your current system, obtain the necessary permits and plan a safe, efficient, non-invasive solution to bring your home up to today’s electrical standards and city codes.
We are happy to schedule an inspection of your knob + tube electrical system, discuss safety concerns and possible options to upgrade with you.
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Knob + tube questions? Give us a call today! | 650-222-8250 | info@violetrayelectric.com