How The Dangerous 'Knob and Tube' Electrical Wiring In Your Home Could Be A Hidden Fire Hazard (But Don't Panic, Here's What To Do)

I recently learned that my home still contains original knob and tube electrical wiring. This outdated and potentially dangerous type of wiring was commonly used in homes built before 1950. As a homeowner, discovering knob and tube wiring left me concerned about fire hazards but also unsure about what to do next.

What Is Knob And Tube Wiring?

Knob and tube wiring consists of individual wires that are run through porcelain knobs and tubes. It was the standard method of electrical wiring in North American homes from about 1880 to the 1930s.

While knob and tube wiring was suitable for the electrical needs of the time, it does not meet modern safety standards in several key ways:

• The wiring lacks a ground wire, increasing the risk of electrocution.
• Insulation around the wires is brittle or deteriorated, raising the chance of shorts and sparks.
• Wires run through open air, tubes, and spaces, leaving them susceptible to damage.

These factors make knob and tube wiring a potential fire hazard. Faulty connections or damaged insulation can overheat the wires and ignite surrounding building materials.

Warning Signs Of Knob And Tube Wiring

Many homes with knob and tube wiring show certain telltale signs:

• Fuses or breaker boxes that only use screw-in fuses are typical of very old electrical systems.
• Wires enter the back of light fixtures and outlets instead of being covered by the receptacle.
• Wiring is attached to ceramic knobs or run through ceramic tubes exposed along walls, ceilings, and framing.
• Discolored or cracked paint around outlets may indicate overheating.
• Lights dimming or flickering can signify connections coming loose.

Finding any of these signs indicates your home likely still relies on outdated and dangerous knob and tube wiring.

Dangers And Risks Of Knob And Tube Wiring

While knob and tube wiring met the needs of earlier eras, it poses several risks for modern homes:

• Fire hazard: Deteriorated insulation and loose connections can overheat, spark, and ignite flammable materials. Faulty wiring is responsible for over 40,000 home fires per year.
• Electrocution risk: Lack of grounding makes knob and tube wiring prone to electrical shocks. Improper connections can energize metal components like ducts.
• Inadequate for modern loads: Heavy electricity consumption from modern appliances can overload the limited capacity of knob and tube wiring.
• Difficulty getting insurance: Most insurers refuse coverage for homes with knob and tube wiring due to the substantial risks.
• Lowered property value: Buyers consider knob and tube wiring a detractor that lowers home value by 10% or more in some cases.

While no wiring is completely risk-free, knob and tube poses dramatically higher safety hazards that only increase with age.

Should I Replace Knob And Tube Wiring?

The risky nature of knob and tube wiring leaves many wondering if it should be preemptively replaced. There is no federal or local regulation requiring removal of knob and tube wiring. However, there are compelling reasons to consider an upgrade:

• Eliminates fire, shock, and electrocution danger from faulty wiring.
• Allows installation of modern safety features like circuit breakers and grounding.
• Prevents potential insurance gaps or restrictions.
• Removes roadblocks during a home sale.
• Brings peace of mind knowing your home's electrical system is safe and reliable.

Replacing knob and tube wiring can be a major project requiring access to walls and ceilings. Consult a qualified electrician to assess your particular situation. They can evaluate if replacement is advised or if less invasive options like insulation might mitigate risks.

What Should I Do If My Home Has Knob And Tube Wiring?

Discovering knob and tube wiring can be alarming. But there are smart steps you can take:

• Learn where it is located in your home and signs of deterioration.
• Assess the scope and condition with an electrician.
• Consider costs of replacement versus potential hazards.
• Evaluate other renovations planned - ideal time to upgrade wiring.
• Inspect often for signs of overheating like discolored outlets.
• Use GFCIs to protect outlets and limit risk in the meantime.
• Avoid overloading circuits with high-draw appliances.
• Have an electrician make repairs to any visibly damaged wiring right away.

Replacing knob and tube wiring is a major undertaking that requires planning. In the interim, being informed and vigilant helps minimize safety risks.

While uncovering knob and tube wiring may be concerning, don't panic. Follow proper precautions and consult electrical experts to make the best plan for your home. Outdated wiring takes effort and investment to upgrade, but the peace of mind and safety payoff are invaluable.