For many people, the process of buying a home is an exciting one. The process involves numerous steps, making it challenging to keep track of everything. One of the most important things to remember is that your new home may have some outdated wiring systems known as knob and tube. While knob and tube wiring is not inherently dangerous, there are some things you should know about it before purchasing your home. Keep reading to learn more!
- Knob-and-tube wiring is an out-of-date type of wiring found in homes built before the 1940s.
- Knob-and-tube wiring consists of wires passing through ceramic tubes in the joists and other wooden parts of the house, held up by ceramic knobs. The wires string together from tube to tube and are usually rubber insulated.
- At the time, this wiring option was chosen for its cost-effectiveness compared to conduits, armored cables, and metal junction boxes.
- However, knob-and-tube wiring is dangerous because:
- The basic insulation (rubber) decays over time.
- It creates a dangerous situation in the event of a power surge or electrical fire due to lack of grounding. Additionally, if a home combines modern wiring with the rubber wires of knob-and-tube setups (which is against code), it can pose further risks.
- Even if this type of wiring were safe—which it is not—we recommend replacing it entirely because:
- The demand if many modern appliances are simply too much for this wiring to handle.
GEN3 can help with an inspection
In conclusion, when purchasing a new home, it’s crucial to be aware of outdated wiring systems. While not inherently dangerous, they can pose risks and may not meet modern electrical codes. For expert guidance and assistance in assessing and replacing outdated wiring, contact GEN3 Electric and HVAC. Click here to learn more about ensuring the safety and efficiency of your home’s electrical system
