How to determine if your home has knob and tube wiring
If you home was built 50 or more years ago, it is very likely to have knob and tube wiring Toronto which was the state of art system back them. Since the wiring system is frequently behind walls, you can check the basement or the attic. If you find, exposed wires that are connected to little pieces of ceramic, then your home has the old wiring system. Make sure you do not touch live wires in the process. A better option is to have the wiring system inspected through knob and tube wiring to confirm your findings. They are in a better position to advice if the wiring system is already dangerous enough to warranty an immediate replacement with a modern wiring system. Replacement can be expensive but you will enjoy electrical safety. Besides that, it will be easier to sell a home with modern wiring because it will be more attractive to home buyers. Knob and tube wiring Toronto will give you a quote so that you can plan accordingly.
Is knob and tube wiring dangerous?
The most typical problem encountered with knob and tube wiring is the refusal of most insurance companies to provide coverage if you they find out that your home has this type of wiring system. Knob and tube wiring can be safe and functional although in some states it is considered dangerous. If you will be required to rewire your building, your option will be knob and tube wiring who can run new circuits and replace fuses with modern circuit breakers.
Knob and tube wiring is considered dangerous by insurance companies because it only includes a hot and neutral wire without a ground wire. Should a fault occurs, there is absolutely no protection. The type of insulation used in knob and tube wiring can easily disintegrate which is considered a fire risk. The old system provides 60 amp service but the wires are often fused with 15 amps. If more current flows through the wire, it may not be handled safely which can lead to excessive heat. Modern devices have three prong receptacles and they cannot be used in the old wiring system that has two-prong receptacles. Without the ground wire, there is increased possibility of shock and injury in areas where water is frequently used like kitchens and bathrooms. The old system is not also equipped for the extra loads required by some high end electronic devices and appliances.