Knob-and-tube wiring

By Bill Streb Owner, Streb Electric

Homes built in the 1950s or earlier are loaded with charm and character, but what’s not so inviting about older homes is their electrical systems. This month I’d like to talk about old knob-and-tube wiring. If your house was built before 1950, it most likely operates on this method of wiring.

The two biggest problems with knob-and-tube wiring are that it carries less current than today’s wiring and it’s usually not grounded. Modern wiring is insulated with plastic, where knob-and-tube is insulated with rubberized fabric that can break down. Over time, the parts become brittle, and the soldered connections weaken and come apart, which makes for intermittent problems in the home.

If you buy a home with knob-and-tube, some insurance companies may charge more or not even cover you. Our electricians can inspect it, but, unfortunately, we can only certify what we can see. We can rewire the home using today’s methods, or we can rewire certain portions of the home where you may need a grounded circuit.

Lately, we’ve been rewiring lots of homes around the Willowick area. Oftentimes people want to add insulation and you can’t do that with existing knob-and-tube wiring, because it needs open space so it won’t overheat. In fact, my parents’ home had this older method and we brought them into the modern electrical era. This measure is preventive, keeping you safe and sound and up to code for years to come.

Give us a call if you’d like to update your home’s electrical system. We take pride in solving problems for our customers, ensuring their safety and fixing what’s wrong.

Streb Electric is headquartered in Willoughby. For the past 40 years, the family-operated service company has earned a reputation for making sure homes are safe and free from electrical hazards. Call 440-953-5819 or visit StrebElectric.com.