Introduction
Knob and tube wiring was commonly installed in homes built before 1950. This old wiring system features insulated wires run through open air, mounted on ceramic knobs and tubes. While knob and tube wiring was suitable for the time, it can present safety hazards by modern standards. Rewiring a home is the only way to fully eliminate the risks. However, this is a complex process best left to licensed electricians. Attempting a DIY rewire with knob and tube can result in electrocution, fires, and other dangers.
Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring
Knob and tube wiring lacks many crucial safety features of modern electrical systems:
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No grounding - This can lead to electric shocks and make it impossible to safely use 3-prong plugs.
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Unsafe insulation - The old cloth/rubber insulation can become brittle and flake off, exposing live wires.
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Overloaded circuits - Knob and tube often cannot handle the electricity needs of modern homes and appliances. This can cause overheating.
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Exposed wires - Open air knob and tube allows contact with insulation that can start fires.
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Difficult to inspect - It runs through walls/ceilings, making problems hard to detect.
These inherent flaws make knob and tube wiring obsolete and hazardous in modern homes.
Dangers of DIY Rewires
While the desire to save money is understandable, attempting to rewire a home yourself has serious risks:
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Electrocution - Mistakes working with live wires and connections can be fatal.
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Fires - Faulty materials or improper installation can lead to electrical fires.
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Insurance issues - Many policies will not cover DIY electrical work. You could lose coverage.
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Code violations - If not up to code, you may be forced to redo the work.
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Lack of experience - Unless you're a licensed electrician, you simply lack the expertise for such a complex job.
Ultimately, these dangers make DIY rewires irresponsible and life-threatening.
Safest Approach: Hire a Licensed Electrician
To safely rewire your home and eliminate knob and tube wiring, your best and only sensible choice is hiring a licensed electrician. Though more expensive than DIY, a professional rewire offers huge advantages:
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Expertise - They have the experience to handle any complexities.
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Safety - Licensed electricians are thoroughly trained to work safely.
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Proper materials - They'll source all the correct, modern wiring materials.
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Up to code - The work will meet all electrical codes and pass inspection.
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Insurance coverage - No concerns over potential denial of insurance claims.
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Warranties - Reputable electricians provide warranties on their labor.
Though a significant investment, a professional rewire is absolutely worth the peace of mind of having a safely modernized electrical system. Attempting it yourself simply isn't worth the risk.
Conclusion
While knob and tube wiring served homes well in the past, it has no place in the modern electrical landscape. The plethora of safety hazards make DIY rewiring unwise and dangerous. Hiring professional electricians remains the only responsible way to rewire your home and protect your family's wellbeing. Though more costly, view it as an investment into your home's safety and value.