Understanding Knob-and-Tube Wiring: Safety, Risks, and What Homeowners Need to Know

Was your home built between 1880 and 1940? If so, there’s a chance you may have knob-and-tube wiring as your home’s electrical wiring system. At the time of its development, knob-and-tube wiring was an advancement in electrical safety and was commonly installed in North America especially in dwelling units. However, as technology advanced, knob-and-tube wiring has since become outdated and can pose a serious safety risk for older homes. This electrical wiring system cannot safely handle the electrical load of modern televisions, computers, air conditioners, ovens, and more.

How Does Knob-and-Tube Wiring Work? What You Need to Know

Knob-and-tube wiring used porcelain tubes as sleeves to insulate the wire where it passed through walls or ceilings, while porcelain knob insulators, secured with nails, supported the single insulated conductors along their length.

Knob-and-Tube Wiring Risks: What Are the Dangers?

Knob-and-tube wiring was once considered safe and reliable but is no longer deemed safe by modern electrical codes. It was normally installed in walls, ceilings, and attics even though it was not originally designed that way. This can easily cause heat damage to the conductor insultation. Here are knob-and-tube wiring risks:

1) Inconsistent Electrical Supply

Knob and tube wiring can lead to fluctuating electrical performance, which may cause issues with modern appliances and devices.

Knob-and-tube wiring was never designed to handle the electrical demands of modern homes, and for a good reason. When this system was first introduced, it was built to power basic household appliances like toasters, clothing irons, light bulbs, small televisions, and refrigerators.

It was not designed to handle today’s modern technological advances in household appliances, which require a more significant electrical demand. Knob-and-tube wiring simply isn’t equipped to handle modern electrical loads, which can lead to overheating, electrical fires, and other safety hazards. Upgrading to a modern wiring system is essential to meet the increased energy demands of today’s household items and to guarantee your home’s safety.

2) Wear and Tear

Over time, knob-and-tube wiring systems experience significant wear and tear that compromises their safety and efficiency. The insulation that once protected the wires can degrade or become brittle, exposing the wires to potential damage or short-circuiting. The ceramic knobs that hold the wires in place can crack or loosen, causing the wire to shift or sag. This can result in electrical arcing, electrical problems, and electrical fires.

Did You Know? You should upgrade your home’s electrical wiring system every 25 years.

If you have knob-and-tube wiring, your electrical system could be over 80 years old, depending on when it was installed. To ensure all wires are working properly and for your safety, contact your local electrician to inspect your wiring system.

3) Missing Ground Wiring

Knob-and-tube wiring lacks a grounding system, which is designed to absorb electrical currents in case of an electrical fault. Without a grounding system, there’s an increased risk of fires, electrical shock, and appliance damage.

4) Insuring a House with Knob-and-Tube Wiring

Insuring knob-and-tube wiring can be challenging because of the potential risks associated with it. However, is it possible to obtain home insurance if you follow the right steps. It is recommended to contact a licensed electrician to inspect your knob-and-tube wiring to determine if the system is in good condition. If the electrician passes your knob-and-tube wiring during the inspection, then some insures will provide coverage. Here are a few insurance companies that may provide coverage:

• Allstate
• Auto-Owners
• Farm Bureau

The Best Safety Tips for Knob-and-Tube Wiring

If your home has knob-and-tube wiring, it’s crucial to take precautions to prevent electrical fires, electrical problems, or shocks. Here are some safety tips you can take:

1. Avoid running too many modern appliances at once to prevent the risk of a fire.
2. Replace damaged wiring immediately.
3. Never touch or fix the electrical wiring yourself. Always contact a licensed electrician.
4. Have an electrician inspect your knob and tube wiring every 2-3 years to ensure its safety.

Tips on What to Do if Your Home Has Knob-and-Tube Wiring

If you have knob-and-tube wiring in your home, don’t panic. While no specific codes or regulations require the removal of knob-and-tube wiring, it’s important to understand the potential risks. Many homeowners prefer to gradually replace the wiring, room by room, during home remodels or updates. Although your knob-and-tube wiring may still be functional and safe, it’s highly recommended to have it inspected and evaluated by a licensed electrician annually. Given its age and potential safety concerns, regular inspections help ensure your electrical system remains safe and up to code.

Electrical Wiring Upgrades with Milton Electric: Baltimore Electrician

If you are interested in upgrading your home’s electrical wiring system or experiencing electrical problems, contact local electrician Milton Electric. Upgrading your knob-and-tube wiring will ensure the safety of you and your home. Additionally, the Milton Electric team offers electrical inspections for all homes and homeowners. Get in touch today!