If you’re on the fence about replacing knob and tube electrical in your home, you’ve landed in the right place. This type of wiring is mostly found in homes built prior to the 1950s, making it an outdated wiring system that can pose serious risks.
At Langstaff & Sloan Electrical Contractors, we believe your safest option is to replace this wiring to avoid key issues that can make it unsafe for you and your family. Consider the following myths and facts before deciding your next steps:
Home Safety
MYTH: There are no safety concerns with knob and tube.
FACT: You should consider replacing this outdated wiring in your home for several key issues. The age of the technology (it predates am radio). It also predates temperature ratings of wire. The absence of a ground wire is a shock hazard. Exposed wires or free-air wiring is often covered over with attic insulation which is flammable. Safer alternatives are available that will offer a more modern, reliable electrical system.
Home Insurance
MYTH: You will be able to find an insurance company that will insure your home with knob and tube.
FACT: This myth is partially true, but it is paired with pricey consequences. It’s possible that you could find an insurance company that will insure your home; however, you will also face high premiums. The fact is, you are more likely to encounter insurance companies that will refuse to insure your home because of the risks associated with the outdated wiring.
Replacement Costs
MYTH: Instead of replacing your wiring, you can save money by adapting the existing knob and tube wiring to GFCI-protected circuits.
FACT: Some contractors may present this as a lower-cost alternative. What they’re suggesting is making a three-prong outlet legal on two-conductor wiring, but still utilizing the old wiring. It’s important to note that most insurance companies will not accept this. This measure does not entirely address the safety risks and could end up costing you additional money and time.
Electrical Work
MYTH: You can complete electrical rewiring on your own.
FACT: When the safety of your family and assets are at stake, you always want to partner with licensed electrical contractors to assess your home and complete a rewiring project. The professional electricians at Langstaff & Sloan are experienced and well-trained. They will prioritize your home’s safety and ensure that their electrical wiring services are fully compliant with the requirements and standards set out by the ESA and the Canadian Electrical Code.
Repair Work
MYTH: Rewiring knob and tube electrical is too much repair work.
FACT: When you choose our team at Langstaff & Sloan to undertake your wiring replacement, you can trust that we’ll treat your house like a home, and not a job site. We also take ownership of the patching required to repair the holes made by the rewiring, so that you receive end-to-end support.
Connect with Knob and Tube Wiring Experts at Langstaff & Sloan
If you have any questions about your home’s wiring, we invite you to connect with us at Langstaff & Sloan. We’re made up of a team of licensed electrical contractors, and we’ve been serving the GTA since 1991.
Additionally, removing this type of outdated wiring has been our specialty at Langstaff & Sloan since 1996. You can rely on the excellence and experience we offer, along with written itemized quotes and reasonable rates. Connect with us today to discuss replacing this wiring in your home.