Ensuring electrical safety is an important consideration for homeowners. However, if you own an older home, you’ll want to be even more mindful of your electrical system. This is because your home may be running on knob and tube wiring. This type of outdated wiring can often pose a range of risks and critical safety concerns for your home and family.
The good news is that safer, modern alternatives are available. In this blog, we’ll explore how upgrading your outdated wiring will allow you to enjoy peace of mind thanks to a safe, reliable electrical system.
The Problems with Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and tube wiring was used in homes from the 1880s through the 1940s. Today’s electricity consumption is much different than that time, which introduces the risk of overloading your home’s electrical system and may lead to electrical fires. In addition, the outdated wiring only provides two-prong outlets as opposed to three-pronged, which are more common for appliances nowadays.
The age of the wiring isn’t the only issue. Additional concerns include:
- Absence of ground wire: The non-grounded system makes can make shock hazards more likely
- Insulation: There are fire risks associated with installing insulation over a free air wiring system
- Temperature ratings: Knob and tube wiring was invented prior to temperature rating tests
- Risk of improper alterations: It can be challenging to find parts and skilled electricians for outdated wiring
- Insurance: It can be difficult to get insurance for a house with this type of wiring
Benefits of Upgrading to Modern Electrical Systems
Replacing knob and tube with modern alternatives will offer you peace of mind as well as the following benefits:
- Grounding: Modern wiring is grounded. So, if an electrical surge or shock passes through, the system will bring that surge to the ground rather than damage any equipment, appliances, or electronics connected to it.
- Temperature ratings: Modern wiring systems take advantage of cutting-edge, fire-safe materials that are rated with high-temperature variants. This means modern electrical products are proven to be safer, despite frequent use.
- Better resale value: If you’re planning to sell your home, upgrading your old electrical wiring should be a priority. It will help your home sell faster, easier, and at a higher value than homes with outdated wiring.
- Home improvements: During a rewiring project is an ideal time to install more outlets, add more lighting, and ensure your home’s electrical system is equipped to meet your needs.
Arguably, the biggest benefit of upgrading to a modern system is safety. You’ll be putting your family first when you invest in a safe, modern electrical system by reducing the chances of electrical fires and/or damage caused by outdated wiring.
Modern Alternatives to Knob and Tube Wiring
This outdated wiring may be considered safe in some scenarios, but we believe your best bet is to invest in modern alternatives through knob and tube replacement. In Toronto and the GTA, you can count on us at Langstaff & Sloan Electrical Contractors for trusted residential electrical services. Knob and tube wiring removal has been our specialty since 1996, and we’re happy to discuss different options with you, including:
- Suitable wiring alternatives and what to expect with installation
- The process of upgrading to a grounded electrical system for safety and functionality
- The importance of upgrading your electrical panel to increase capacity and efficiency
You can put your trust in our team of experienced professionals to walk you through your options for updated, safe alternatives. Reach out to us to learn more.
Considerations When Upgrading
If you’re preparing for knob and tube replacement, you’ll want to select the licensed electrical contractors at Langstaff & Sloan who have plenty of experience with this venture. We’ll discuss the project with you, as well as identify the necessary permits and regulatory compliance for electrical system upgrades. Further, you can rely on us to complete the work properly and to code, while also treating your home with respect. Some homes may require many holes to fish wires, and you can count on us to patch them up.
Removing the wiring can be a large project, priced between $5,000 and $15,000, depending on the size of your home and how much outdated wiring needs to be replaced. We encourage you to reach out to us to learn more; we’re happy to provide you with a written, itemized quote.
When it comes to outdated wiring, Langstaff & Sloan believes your safest option is to invest in modern alternatives. In doing so, you’ll be prioritizing the safety and functionality of your home, allowing you to rest easy knowing that your electrical system has been upgraded.
Get started by reaching out to us to request a consultation.