What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Depending on the age of your home and its maintenance history, you might still have knob and tube wiring.

What is knob and tube wiring? If you’re unfamiliar with this type of system, you can use this guide to determine whether your home uses it. The following information will also help you decide when to upgrade your house’s electrical wiring.

Residential Electrical Systems: What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

This type of wiring is copper wiring that runs through ceramic tubes. In addition, ceramic knobs serve as supports for the wiring throughout the home. The ceramic material acts as insulation and can last for decades.

The wires that connect to light switches or electrical outlets have additional insulation. This cloth insulation is commonly known as the loom. In this system, hot and neutral wires stay separated by a space of four to six inches. Maintaining this gap eliminates the need for grounding.

Is Knob and Tube Wiring Dangerous?

Knob and tube wiring is generally safe for use, but the system does deteriorate over time. The wires stretch and become loose, increasing the likelihood of an electrical short. The fabric loom insulation compounds this problem since it is a flammable material.

The long-term deterioration and lack of grounding wires usually prompt homeowners to upgrade their electrical systems. An electrical inspection will uncover deterioration and other issues affecting the safe use of your knob and tube wiring.

How Will an Electrician Update Your Home’s Wiring?

You may wonder, “What is knob and tube wiring usually replaced with when the system deteriorates?” Your electrician will replace the entire setup with NM (non-metallic) cables. This system consists of a large plastic sheath containing insulated hot, neutral, and ground wires. The electrician will also replace your old outlets with GFCI and AFCI outlets. The updated outlets will guard against shocks and overheating.

Start With a Professional Electrical Inspection

When you partner with Anderson Electric, we’ll provide a thorough inspection. Our comprehensive report will allow you to determine when it’s time to upgrade your electrical system. We provide repairs and installation services to ensure you’ll continue using energy safely and efficiently. Contact us to schedule service today.