Replacing Old, and Knob-And-Tube Wiring: It's a Matter of Safety

Is Knob-And-Tube Wiring Safe?

Much akin to anything, if you were to answer this question in a vacuum within an ideal use-case, such as regimented maintenance and repairs by a licensed electrician in Toronto, then they would be fine for usage.

Theory, however, is not in sync with reality in this case as knob-and-tube wiring is not safe for use within contemporary society. A common sighting in these systems are decrepit and broken porcelain knobs and tubes, frayed wiring, and live wires laid bare as sheathing becomes stripped over the years.

Worse yet, many a homeowner have resorted to DIY repair tactics as components for these systems are no longer available on the market, leading to extremely hazardous alterations. In fact, earlier this year firefighters rushed to the scene of a fire which took the life of a mother at home, with experts believing the knob-and-tube wiring to be at the crux of the situation.

To avoid disastrous situations such as these, we recommend reaching out to a licensed electrician in Toronto – they are trained and equipped to interact with such systems and replace them to ensure your safety.

When Was Knob-And-Tube Wiring Seen in Common Use?

Estimates for the usage of this outdated wiring date back to 1880 through to the 1940s across North America. It is now an obsolete method of wiring compared to the modern advancements we see today, for example, the lack of a grounding conductor in knob-and-tube wiring (now a common practice in modern wiring) means that no safe route exists for any surplus electricity, especially at life-threatening voltages, to travel through - leaving you and your appliances in harm’s way.

When Should Electrical Wiring Be Replaced?

Your home doesn’t just need to be in possession of knob-and-tube wiring to be a risk factor. There are an assortment of issues that are symptomatic of poor electrical wiring and act as a clear-cut sign to reach out to a licensed electrician in Toronto:

1. Power surges – identified by discolouration around your outlets. This can pose a serious fire risk and must be handled promptly.

2. Atypical noise – electricity supplied around your home should be silent. Buzzing and crackling are, more often than not, traced back to poor wiring, overloaded circuits, or a faulty panel.

3. 1960s to 1980s Housing – it was not uncommon for housing constructed during these periods to utilise aluminium as a material for electrical wiring, unlike the copper used for modern establishments. This is troublesome as aluminium connections can loosen and overheat over time, leading to a fire hazard.

Don’t Play Around with Your Life

Our team of licensed electricians in Toronto are always on hand to remedy any electrical inconvenience that comes your way. We are proud of the work we put in and it shows when it comes to customer satisfaction, visit our testimonial page to see for yourself!

Time and time again, our licensed electricians in Toronto have been successful in replacing numerous knob-and-tube wirings, and other electrical requests, in record time. We’d love to do the same for you!