How to Safely Replace Knob and Tube Wiring in your Home

What is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Knob and tube wiring was an early system used to wire homes in the late 1800s through the 1930s. It consists of individual wires that are insulated only by drawing them through porcelain knobs and ceramic tubes.

This old system has become outdated and potentially dangerous due to:

• Lack of grounding - The wires have no ground which can lead to shocks.
• Insulation breakdown - The insulation can become brittle and deteriorate over time.
• Overloading - The system was not designed to handle the electricity usage of modern homes.

Replacing knob and tube wiring helps make your home safer and up to modern electrical codes.

Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring

Knob and tube wiring poses several risks, including:

• Fire hazard - Deteriorating insulation can expose bare wires that arc and spark, igniting nearby flammable materials. This caused many house fires over the years.
• Shock hazard - No grounding means you can get severely shocked by touching an electrified metal surface.
• Damage to electronics - Sensitive electronics can be damaged or destroyed by power fluctuations coming through old wiring.
• Lack of capacity - The wiring lacks capacity to support major appliances and electronics needed in modern homes.

It is highly recommended to replace knob and tube wiring as soon as possible to protect your home and family.

Planning Your Wiring Replacement Project

Replacing knob and tube wiring is a major project that requires careful planning and safety precautions. Here are key steps to prepare:

• Hire a qualified, licensed electrician to assess your entire wiring system. Get a detailed replacement quote in writing.
• Check permits and regulations for your area. Inform your home insurance company of the upcoming work.
• Have the power shut off to the areas being worked on. Never do a wiring project with the power still live!
• If feasible, plan to replace all old wiring at once. Doing it piecemeal can leave dangerous sections behind walls.
• Buy electrical materials like Romex wiring ahead of time so work can proceed efficiently.
• Remove or protect fragile belongings that may get damaged during the demolition work.

Planning thoroughly will help the project go smoothly and safely.

Step-by-Step Process to Replace Wiring

Replacing knob and tube wiring is an extensive demolition and reconstruction process. Here is an overview of what's involved:

1. Turn Off Power and Inspect

• Shut off power at the main panel and tag/lock it so it stays off.
• Remove cover plates and inspect wiring to seeExtent of knob and tube wiring.
• Also check for other hazards like aluminum wiring or asbestos insulation.

2. Remove Old Wiring

• Take down the knob and tube wiring. Be careful not to damage intact wiring you plan to keep.
• Also remove any crisscrossing extension cords and amateur wiring jobs.

3. Install New Wiring System

• Map out a new wiring plan following code for capacity and number of circuits.
• Run grounded copper wiring through walls and ceilings back to the main panel.
• Use safe mounting hardware to secure the new wires.

4. Update Electrical Boxes and Fixtures

• Replace old outlets, switches and junction boxes with grounded versions.
• Install modern grounded light fixtures as needed.

5. Inspect and Close Up

• Have the completed system inspected to get a certificate of approval.
• Patch walls, ceilings and floors from the demolition work.
• Paint and do finish work.

The process often takes several days based on the extent of the house rewiring. Take precautions against dust and debris during the work.

Finding a Qualified Electrician

Seeking bids from qualified, licensed electricians is highly recommended for any knob and tube replacement project. Warning signs of an unqualified electrician include:

• ❌ No license or proof of training
• ❌ Vague bids instead of detailed quotes
• ❌ Requests payment upfront before doing work
• ❌ Uses unsafe practices like leaving wiring live

The best electricians will provide a certified final inspection of their work. This provides peace of mind that your home's electrical system is now safe and code compliant.

Is DIY Wiring Replacement an Option?

It is strongly advised to hire a professional for any knob and tube replacement project except very minor work. Dangers include:

• Making mistakes on complex electrical systems and codes
• Leaving hidden fire and shock risks behind walls
• Getting injured if an energized wire is cut accidentally

Unlike simpler jobs like adding an electrical outlet, rewiring a home requires specialized skills, tools and licensure for safety. The risk and liability of DIY errors is too high.

Conclusion

Replacing outdated and dangerous knob and tube wiring provides huge safety benefits for your home. Follow proper planning steps, hire a qualified electrician, and take all precautions when undergoing this major electrical project. The peace of mind and safety after replacing knob and tube wiring is well worth the effort and expense.