How to Safely Replace Knob and Tube Wiring in Older Homes

Introduction

Replacing knob and tube wiring in older homes can seem daunting, but with proper planning and precautions, it can be done safely. Knob and tube wiring was commonly installed in homes built before the 1940s. While it served its purpose at the time, this old wiring is inefficient compared to modern electrical systems and can pose safety risks. Upgrading to modern wiring is the best way to ensure the electrical safety and efficiency of your older home.

I recently went through the process of replacing the knob and tube wiring in my century home. In this article, I'll share what I learned to help others navigate this project safely.

Dangers of Knob and Tube Wiring

Before deciding to rewire, it's important to understand why knob and tube wiring is problematic:

• Fire hazard - The insulation on old wiring degrades over time, increasing the risk of short circuits and fires. Knob and tube has no ground wire, which modern systems use to prevent shocks.

• Insufficient for modern loads - Lighting, appliances, and electronics require much more power than decades ago. Knob and tube wasn't designed to handle the amperage we need today.

• Inability to use circuit breakers - Fuses are the only protection with knob and tube. Circuit breakers are safer and more convenient.

• Insurance issues - Many insurers won't cover homes with knob and tube or charge substantially higher premiums.

Replacing this outdated wiring clearly lowered the safety risks and limitations in my home.

Dangers of DIY Knob and Tube Replacement

While it's smart to remove old knob and tube, I don't advise DIY electrical work unless you're a licensed electrician. Dangers include:

• Electrocution - Mistakes can be fatal with inexperienced wiring work. Leave it to the professionals.

• Fire - Improper connections and overloaded circuits are major fire hazards.

• Insurance problems - Most insurers require licensed electricians for significant electrical work.

• Code violations - If work doesn't meet electrical code, you could be required to redo it.

For safety, compliance, insurance, and peace of mind, hiring a licensed pro is highly recommended.

Preparing for a Professional Rewiring Project

When planning to hire an electrician, here are key steps I took to prepare:

Research contractors

• Check reviews and complaints - Online searches uncovered useful homeowner feedback on local electricians. I gave preference to pros with consistently glowing reviews.

• Verify licenses - I made sure potential contractors had active licenses and were bonded and insured. This protects you in case of issues down the road.

• Get multiple estimates - I arranged for three established companies to evaluate my home's needs and provide written estimates. This helped me understand reasonable pricing.

Save up

• Knob and tube rewiring isn't cheap. Get quotes well in advance and budget accordingly. My 1,200 sq ft house cost around $8,000.

Make access convenient

• Removing old plaster walls can increase costs. I opened up access areas ahead of time which saved my electrician time.

Secure valuables

• Major construction creates risks of theft. I made sure treasured items were safeguarded off site before work began.

Plan for outages

• No power means no lights, fridge, cooking, etc! I stayed elsewhere during the rewiring to avoid major disruptions.

Taking such preparatory steps made the entire electrical upgrade process smoother.

What to Expect During Rewiring

Once you've selected a qualified electrician and prepared your home, here is an overview of what typically happens:

• Complete rewiring usually takes 2-3 days. Schedule accordingly.

• All old knob and tube wiring is removed back to the panel. New wiring is run through walls and attic space.

• All outlets are replaced and grounded. Additional outlets may be added per code.

• Light fixtures are removed and replaced with grounded fixtures.

• The electrical panel is upgraded if needed and circuit breakers installed.

• A thorough inspection checks all work meets National Electrical Code requirements.

• Walls are patched and painted. New fixtures reinstalled. Cleanup is completed.

• Power is restored and the improved electrical system tested.

It's noisy and messy, so temporarily relocating is best if possible. But in the end, you gain a safer, more reliable electrical system.

Maintaining Your New Electrical System

Once your home's electrical system has been modernized, be sure to:

• Never overload circuits - Use circuit breakers properly and add circuits if needed for large loads.

• Test GFCIs monthly - Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) prevent shocks. Test them regularly.

• Address tripped breakers immediately - Find and fix the cause of any tripped breakers.

• Update as needed - Consider adding circuits or outlets if your needs change over time.

Following basic electrical maintenance and safety practices will keep your new wiring working properly for decades to come!

Conclusion

Replacing outdated knob and tube wiring requires significant effort and expense, but I consider it one of the wisest investments I've made in my home. The peace of mind and safety benefits are well worth it. With proper planning and hiring professional electricians, the process can go smoothly. If your older home still has original wiring, I'd strongly encourage you to look into upgrading for the safety of both your family and your house.