Knob and tube wiring, also known as open wiring, was a common wiring method used across Canada from the 1900’s until the late 1940’s. During this time, it is estimated that over 200,000 homes were built with knob and tube wiring in BC. If you live in Langley, Abbotsford or the Lower Mainland, chances are you have knob and tube wiring in your home. Experts recommend having your old wiring replaced with its modern alternative to keep you and your home safe. Here’s what you need to understand about knob and tube wiring when living in British Columbia.
What is Knob and Tube Wiring?
Knob and tube wiring was a popular method used in homes during the first half of the 1900’s. It uses cloth-covered wires (tubes) attached to porcelain knobs. As it was so popular and widely used, it’s very likely that your home could have knob and tube wiring. Modern homes are no longer built with knob and tube wiring due to the dangers of using this outdated method.
Today, knob and tube wiring is dangerous to have in homes as it does not incorporate ground wires. You need to have ground wires in a modern home in order to protect it from surges and other faults. Another issue with knob and tube wiring is that it is old. Depending on the age of your home, your wiring system could be 50 to 100 years behind. This means that your home’s wiring is no longer up to code which can make your home uninsurable. If a company is willing to insure a home with knob and tube wiring, the rates will be very high.
One way to know if your home has knob and tube wiring is to check your outlets. If there is only space for two-prongs, you most likely have knob and tube wiring. Modern-day appliances use three-pronged plugs. The grounding prong is the third prong that protects us from shocks. In order to use modern-day appliances, you will need to update your home from your old knob and tube wiring. In fact, expert electricians high recommend replacing it.
How to Have Knob and Tube Wiring Replaced
In order to make sure your home is safe, you need to bring it up to code. Doing so will make your home insurable again and it will also give you peace of mind that if anything goes wrong, you will be protected. Our expert electricians strongly recommend that you have all of your knob and tube wiring replaced in your home.
If you’re planning another major renovation, such as a kitchen or bathroom overhaul, factor in your wiring needs. During major renovations, walls will be torn down, exposing the wiring behind. This is the perfect time to have your wiring updated by an experienced electrician. If you’re not planning a big renovation anytime soon, you should still have your wiring updated. A master electrician will be able to update your wiring while causing minimal disruption to your home.
For this project, you will need to hire a master electrician. A master electrician has the highest level of experience and knowledge in the industry. Keep in mind that by law in British Columbia the only electricians legally allowed to work on electrical jobs are those who have successfully completed the Electrical Contractor License by Technical Safety BC. Failing to hire a qualified electrician can lead to fatal damages to your home as your electrician might not be as skilled as they claim to be. This is why it’s always important to ask your electrician to confirm their qualifications before hiring. For more information about how to safely hire a licensed electrician in your area, read this article.
If you’re concerned about the wiring in your home, it’s always best to have an expert take a look. By using HomeStars, you can quickly and easily connect with licensed electricians in your area and discuss your concerns. They will be able to provide you with a quote and a plan to get your wiring up to modern standards. Don’t wait to update your wiring and get in touch with an electrician today.
