Knob and tube is a house wiring method that was popular in America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this wiring method, a combination of ceramic knobs and copper tubes were designed to enclose the wire, through which the electric supply of the homes used to run.
The wiring system was regarded as safe and standardized in 1960s. However, today it is regarded as obsolete and outdated both from safety as well as cost perspectives. Let’s look at the main issues and dangers the system of knob and tube wiring Canada ,that make it hazardous to modern-day homes
Absence of Ground Wire
The knob and tube wiring is basically a 2-wire system. It does not have a ground wire that runs deep into the earth and offloads the excess electricity. This makes the knob and tube system very susceptible to short circuits and electrical fires.
Also, the absence of a 3rd wire means that this system is not fit for most modern electrical gadgets that are three-pronged like washing machines, televisions and electronic gadgets.
Insulation and Resistance
The insulation that covers the knob and tube wiring system can increase the chances of an electrical fire. It is designed in such a way that the heat generated in electrical transmission is thrown in the open air. The heat is thus retained for a long time can easily result in a fire hazard.
Also, compared to most modern wiring systems, the knob and tube wiring offers less resistance. These wires can crack and strip due to frequent bending, thus affecting their resistance. This again makes the wiring system vulnerable to fire hazards.
Frequent Circuit Overloading
The knob and tube system was designed to serve homes of over a century back. People back then did not use too many electrical and electronic devices and thus the system was not so burdened. However, in modern times when electronic gadgets are used at bulk in almost every home, the knob and tube system may not be adequate to bear the load. This results in frequent circuit overloads that may become a safety hazard.
Replacement And Insurance
Due to frequent risks associated with knob and tube wiring, many insurance companies will not agree to insure houses with such wiring systems. Thus, the cost of repair is entirely your burden, in case, you move into a home with knob and tube wiring system.
Also, replacing the wiring system can be literally very expensive. An electrician might have to literally overhaul the whole wiring system of the house. This can even cause damage to ceilings, walls and floors of your house.
Thus, these risk and cost issues make the knob and tube wiring system least preferred in modern-day homes. In case, you are moving to a new home, we recommend you first ensure that it has modern electric fitting done rather than the now outdated knob and tube system
