So what makes this wiring system dangerous?
Not dangerous in itself, but the increased risk of k&t wiring is from its old age, its lack of grounding, its incompatibility with moisture (so forget having it near the bathrooms or kitchen), and its sheathing which when comes in contact with building materials, creates a fire hazard.
So does knob and tube wiring have to be replaced? Is it even legal to have it in your home?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases, a knob and tube wiring replacement is advised. Yes, in Ontario and according to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), k&t wiring is still permitted provided it is installed and maintained by a licensed electrical contractor. However, if your budget allows for it, we would still recommend a complete wiring overhaul. Contact us to assess your electrical wiring situation and we will advise you based on your home’s power and safety needs.
What about aluminum wiring which was popular in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s? Does aluminum wiring have to be replaced?
The ESA also permits aluminum wiring in Ontario, so homeowners don’t necessarily have to rush to get an aluminum wiring replacement right this minute. However, the dangers of this wiring system lies in the fact that it degrades quicker than modern copper, and its poor connections increase the fire risk. In some cases, a complete aluminum wiring replacement may not be necessary. Your local licensed electricians in Sarnia can potentially add a copper wire cap to the end of the aluminum wire. Of course, our professionals will have to assess your home to provide various options to you.
One thing to keep in mind is that should you decide to keep knob and tube or aluminum wiring in place, your home insurance may see this in an unfavourable light and reflect that in the insurance premiums or refuse to insure your home at all.
If you’re looking for electrical wiring services, you’ve come to the right place. Our licensed electrical contractors will do everything from repair damaged electrical wire to replace your home’s entire wiring system. Call us for an assessment and no-obligation quote today.
Not dangerous in itself, but the increased risk of k&t wiring is from its old age, its lack of grounding, its incompatibility with moisture (so forget having it near the bathrooms or kitchen), and its sheathing which when comes in contact with building materials, creates a fire hazard.
So does knob and tube wiring have to be replaced? Is it even legal to have it in your home?
Yes, in the vast majority of cases, a knob and tube wiring replacement is advised. Yes, in Ontario and according to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), k&t wiring is still permitted provided it is installed and maintained by a licensed electrical contractor. However, if your budget allows for it, we would still recommend a complete wiring overhaul. Contact us to assess your electrical wiring situation and we will advise you based on your home’s power and safety needs.
What about aluminum wiring which was popular in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s? Does aluminum wiring have to be replaced?
The ESA also permits aluminum wiring in Ontario, so homeowners don’t necessarily have to rush to get an aluminum wiring replacement right this minute. However, the dangers of this wiring system lies in the fact that it degrades quicker than modern copper, and its poor connections increase the fire risk. In some cases, a complete aluminum wiring replacement may not be necessary. Your local licensed electricians in Sarnia can potentially add a copper wire cap to the end of the aluminum wire. Of course, our professionals will have to assess your home to provide various options to you.
One thing to keep in mind is that should you decide to keep knob and tube or aluminum wiring in place, your home insurance may see this in an unfavourable light and reflect that in the insurance premiums or refuse to insure your home at all.
If you’re looking for electrical wiring services, you’ve come to the right place. Our licensed electrical contractors will do everything from repair damaged electrical wire to replace your home’s entire wiring system. Call us for an assessment and no-obligation quote today.
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