Have you ever heard of “knob and tube wiring?” If not, you may be surprised to hear that this type of wiring may actually be the kind of electrical system that is behind the walls of your home!
Make Sure to Replace Any Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and tube wiring is an old way of doing electrical wiring that was big back “from as far back as the 1880s through to the 1940s.” If you have a house that was built around that time, then, you may have this old system in your own home. Unfortunately, because this type is essentially obsolete these days, it can actually be considered potentially-dangerous.
If you’re looking for it around the house, then you want to try and find the “white, ceramic, spool-like knobs” that gave it its name. They’re fairly obvious to identify, so long as they’re not hidden behind the walls, which is a real possibility. If you’re able to confirm that you have this kind of wiring at home, then you may be wondering what makes it dangerous enough to consider getting it replaced.
For one thing, it’s very, very old. You can probably guess that judging by its likely age. As a result, it “is frequently overloaded, posing a fire hazard.” You should eliminate all possible fire hazards as a rule, and though this might take some time and money, it will pay off in safety and in electricity saved over time, since these old systems are also very inefficient. Knob and tube wiring also does not provide any surge protection, since it has a “lack of ground wire,” so it puts your electronic devices at risk as well as your own safety.
Finally, this kind of wiring is said to be “incompatible with moisture.” That means it can’t – or shouldn’t – be installed in rooms that have any kind of water running, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and more. This increases the danger of electrical shock and accidents, so consider this, along with the above factors, when deciding whether to have your wiring replaced, or at least inspected.
To choose a qualified electrician for your own house and to know you’re getting a licensed professional, get in touch with Tim Kyle Electric. You can talk to an expert about new installations of lighting and wiring, among other things, for your home or business.
About Tim Kyle Electric
Tim Kyle Electric has been delighting our customers with responsive, trusted and professional electrical services since 1986. We provide residential, commercial and solar power services and are experts in our field. Our team of professionally trained employees uphold our core values of honesty, respect and integrity. We are available 24/7 for your electrical servicing needs. Get in touch with us today to discuss your next electrical project.