Back at the turn of the 20th century, homes were starting to be outfitted with electrical wires. Gas lamps were a thing of the past, and the industrial revolution brought with it electricity—a cheap and effective alternative to traditional methods of lighting and power. From this point on, most homes were built with electrical systems installed, fuse boxes, and other ways to provide electrical power.
However, times have changed. The knob and tube wiring of the past is now old and outdated. If you’re a new homeowner in our area who just bought a beautiful old house, or you’re someone who has been in your antique house for a while, knob and tube wiring might ring a bell. Unfortunately, it could very well be a safety concern and could cause you trouble with your home insurance policy.
Our certified Mandeville, LA electricians can quickly remove your old wiring and replace it with newer, safer, more effective electrical wires.
What’s Wrong With Knob and Tube Wiring?
Let’s first start by talking about the major problems with knob and tube wiring. As the name implies, knob and tube wiring is literally wiring that is attached to knobs and tubes in the attic of your home. It might not be powering all of the electrical equipment in your home, but even if it’s sitting there still live, you’ve got a problem.
Knob and tube wiring is a fire hazard. They are exposed wires which means they’re likely started to corrode and lose integrity. Corroding, broken wires that are live can be a recipe for disaster. They can start to arc electricity, heat up beyond what your home is designed to withstand, and even cause a fire if you’re not careful.
Most wires installed today are insulated and built out of sturdier materials that are built to withstand the test of time. Knob and tube wiring, and other types of old wires, haven’t been installed in homes since likely before you were born, so there’s a chance that it’s pretty ancient and needs to be replaced.
How It’s Bad for Your Home and Budget
Knob and tube wiring can be bad for your home and budget for two distinct reasons.
- It is faulty and living on borrowed time. It’s going to wear down at a faster pace than any other wiring in your home. You could have lights that suddenly go out and you’ll need to call an electrician to have the knob and tube wiring replaced anyways.
- It’s unsafe and will cause problems for your home insurance. Home insurance premiums can skyrocket if they find out that your home has knob and tube wiring. We recommend you not take this risk and you get your knob and tube wiring replaced so that insurance professionals don’t charge you for unsafe and outdated wiring.
There Are Better Wiring Systems Out There
Look, it’s becoming clear that electrical devices and appliances are being more and more integral to our everyday lives. Why not couple your devices and appliances with an electrical system that’s safe and that can handle the power load?