Knob and Tube Wiring in Older Homes

Homes built prior to 1950 may still have a knob and tube wiring system. Though the technology is old, it is still capable of carrying electricity throughout the home. There are additional factors, however, that homeowners should know about when buying or selling a home with knob and tube wiring. Knob and tube wiring must always be disclosed during the home inspection process even if replacement is not required in your specific area.

What is Knob and Tube Wiring?

These systems use porcelain insulators (knobs) for running wires through unobstructed spaces. Porcelain tubes protect wires that run through studs and joists. Knob and tube wiring may not always be visible, but outlets that are two-pronged and ungrounded may indicate that the home has this type of electrical system.

Is It Unsafe?

Installations must be evaluated on a case by-case basis. Safety usually depends on the home’s history of modifications and upgrades. Modern homes have much greater demand for electricity compared to when these systems were commonly installed. As a result, modifications to handle the increased demand were often undertaken by a handyman or an unqualified contractor. While an electrician can do a proper splice and install the correct fuses, home inspections often reveal substandard modifications, including faulty splices and inappropriate fuse resistances, which an create a serious safety hazard.

Updating the Wiring

If there are only a tube knob and tube circuits to replace it will not be expensive. But if the home has knob and tube wiring throughout, an upgrade may involve more than just replacing existing circuits, such as upgrading the breaker panel, and this may present a greater expense. In an upgrade, the wiring will be updated to today’s standards. In the end, for safety and peace of mind it is well worth the expense to upgrade to the safer, modern electrical system.

For more information about buying or selling your home,contact Global Point Relocation Solutions at (562)221-0055

– excerpt taken from RISMedia