When to consider calling an electrician?
Here are some warning signs of a faulty or outdated home wiring:
Fuses or breakers tripping frequently (multiple times a month or more
Flickering, buzzing and/ or dimming lights
Discolouration, heat and/ or scorch marks on outlets can indicate an overloaded or faulty outlet
Visible ‘Knob & Tube’ wiring
Outdated Wiring
The two most common types of outdated wiring seen in residential homes are ‘knob and tube’ and/ or ‘aluminum wiring’. Read through this page to learn more about each and contact us if you have any questions.
Our team of electrical experts can identify faulty or outdated wiring and provide a detailed list of services required to guarantee a safe home.
Knob & Tube Explanation
The photo is a classic example of knob and tube. It is a simple 2 long copper wire insulated with a rubberized cloth and wound around a ceramic knob. The ceramic knob is the easiest way to identify whether your home has this type of wiring – they are often nailed to joists.
Photo source: Wikipedia
Knob and Tube Wiring
Is it necessary to upgrade ‘Knob and Tube’ wiring?
No, it is not necessary to upgrade this wiring, but HIGHLY recommended as this method was used in homes in the early 1900s to 1940s and often insufficient for the demands of the 21st century. This outdated method offered 60 amp service which does not meet Canada’s standard today of 100 amp.
Similarly, many home insurance companies will not provide or renew coverage on homes with this type of wiring, as they are considered to be a higher risk. They may request that the wiring be replaced before they approve coverage.
At Sparky Mark, we will determine the best course of action before we start each project. Our team will have a meeting with the homeowner to discuss the schedule and determine the best way to prepare the house. After all these factors are taken into account we will provide a written estimate.
Resource Link
Click here for a great article from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) about Knob and Tube Wiring
Process of Knob and Tube Removal
In a perfect world a property would be vacant during the time of the home rewire. Although, we understand that is often not a practical option for individuals! At Sparky Mark we have experience completing rewires with minimal intrusion to the home. We have expertise in preserving historical features of the home, such as intricate plaster ceilings and century trim and will take the time to find a route that stays clear of any potential damage.
We will do our best to minimize the dust and debris during the rewire. When possible, our technicians will ask the homeowner to relocate soft furniture to another location and create a sealed off room with plastic. If that is not an option, we will cover surfaces with plastic. Our electricians always wear boot covers and place drop clothes on the walking paths throughout your home.
This type of work will require an inspection from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA). Upon completion, our technician will schedule the inspection and provide the homeowner with an ESA Inspection Certificate.
In the end, we take pride in ensuring that the recently installed wires seamlessly integrate, giving the impression that they have always been an inherent part of the property.
Aluminum Wiring
Is it necessary to upgrade Aluminum Wiring?
No, it is not necessary to upgrade this wiring if installed properly. This type of wiring is often found in homes built between the mid 1960s and 1970s. Aluminum wiring is considered much safer than Knob and Tube and still approved by the Ontario Electrical Safety Code (OESC).
Although aluminum wiring is sometimes not approved by home insurance companies without an ESA Certificate of Acceptance. A Licensed Electrical Contractor (LEC) is required to complete the assessment, which is a service Sparky Mark provides.
A technician will determine whether the aluminum wiring can receive a “treatment” or will have to be replaced.
Resource Link
Click here for a great article from the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) about Aluminum Wiring myths and facts
Aluminum Wiring Explanation
This photo is an example of how to identify aluminum wiring. The wiring should be labelled with the word ‘aluminum’ as circled in yellow. Aluminum wiring appears like modern wiring used today.
Photo source: WireChief
Process of Aluminum Wiring Treatment
Aluminum wiring treatment is not as invasive as Knob and Tube removal. The problems often exist at termination points such as receptacles, switches, fixtures, appliance connections and in the electrical panel. This means that there is a lower chance to have to cut holes in your walls unlike knob and tube!
The certified electrician will take time to visually inspect terminations for signs of failure and overheating without removing or disturbing the devices or wiring. If the technician finds signs of overheating then the termination point will be replaced.
The written estimate of this service will be in two parts. The first portion will be the inspection cost, which will be determined by the size of the home and scope of work. The second estimate will be for any replacement required determined by the home inspection.
Process of Aluminum Wiring Replacement
This process would be very similar to that of Knob and Tube.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is home wiring and why is it important?
Home wiring refers to the system of electrical cables and devices that distribute electricity throughout your home. It’s essential for powering lights, appliances, and electronic devices, and it’s crucial for the safety and functionality of your home.
Why should I upgrade my knob & tube wiring?
- The rubber cloth deteriorates over time exposing the 2 copper wires which is a fire hazard
- There is no grounding wire, making it incompatible with modern three-prong appliances, which may damage your electronics and/ or appliances
- The components are not moisture safe, which is a major shock hazard unlike today’s products such as GFCI outlets found in bathrooms, kitchens, etc.
- High risk of wires overheating as original installation was dependent on free-air cavities to dissipate heat, and the addition of insulation in walls and ceilings inadvertently removes these free-air spaces
- Most home insurance companies are hesitant to insure knob and tube or charge a very high premium
How can I tell if my home has electrical problems?
Common signs include frequent circuit breaker trips, unusual noises like buzzing or humming from outlets or switches, burning smells, and outlets or switches that are warm to the touch.
What is the purpose of circuit breakers in my home?
Circuit breakers protect your home’s electrical system by automatically shutting off power when they detect an overload or short circuit, preventing damage and potential fire hazards.
Energizing your world safely
