Introduction
Rewiring a home can be extremely dangerous if done improperly. Faulty wiring can lead to fires, electrocution, and other hazards. However, wiring methods and electrical safety knowledge have advanced considerably over the past century. Understanding this history provides useful context, though it is not a substitute for proper training and licensure. This article will explore the evolution of home wiring and highlight some once-common but highly dangerous practices that have been abandoned for safer methods.
The Dangers of Early Electrical Systems
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, electricity was just entering widespread household use. But wiring methods were crude and risks poorly understood.
Knob and Tube Wiring
One notorious early technique was knob and tube wiring. Insulated wires were run through open air, stabilized with ceramic knobs. They were vulnerable to loose connections and deterioration of insulation. Electrocution and fire risks were high. These hazards remained as houses aged, yet many homes still have original knob and tube wiring today. Rewiring is the only safe solution.
Cloth-Insulated Wiring
Early electrical wires had cloth insulation rather than modern rubber and plastics. While an improvement over bare wire, cloth still allowed shorts, sparks, and fires as it aged. Even small wiring jobs were dangerous with these materials. Thankfully they are now obsolete.
Lack of Grounding
A key safety concept that took decades to adopt was grounding - providing a safe path for excess current to dissipate. Ungrounded systems put humans at risk of shocks. Modern homes have extensive grounding protection, but some older homes still lack proper grounding necessitating an upgrade.
Safety Advancements in Home Wiring
Fortunately, wiring techniques, materials, and safety knowledge have all improved dramatically over the past century. While amateur rewiring is still inadvisable, current standards make electrical systems far safer when installed properly.
Plastic-Jacketed Wire
Modern wiring uses heavy plastic insulation that resists heat and aging far better than old cloth or rubber coatings. This insulates against shorts and shocks even after decades installed. Plastic-jacketed wire is a huge safety advancement.
Circuit Breakers
Circuit breakers are now standard rather than primitive fuses. Breakers automatically stop current in the event of overloads and shorts. This contains dangerous sparks and heating quickly. Frequent inspections ensure breakers remain functional.
AFCI Outlets
AFCI outlets monitor for dangerous arc faults and cuts power quickly if detected. This reduces fire risks significantly. AFCIs are now required in new construction. Upgrading old outlets is wise.
Ground Fault Interrupters
Bathrooms and other areas now require GFCI outlets. These detect even small leakage currents and break the circuit to prevent shocks. GFCIs provide essential protection from electrocution.
Conclusion
In summary, old wiring techniques were quite dangerous as electrical systems spread into homes. But modern homes now benefit from considerable safety improvements in materials, grounding, breakers, and advanced outlets. While major rewiring projects still require licensed electricians, our homes are now far safer thanks to electrical code advancements over the past century. Understanding this history provides useful context, but there is no substitute for proper training and licensure when working with home wiring.