The Ottawa House - Knob-and-Tube Wiring

Posted on April 18, 2008 
Filed Under Buying Your New Home, The Ottawa House, Valerie Zinger

Wired in Ottawa.  When moving to Ottawa, many people are attracted to the older neighbourhoods and older homes.  One reason, of course, is the proximity to the downtown area, especially for Federal Government employees as many of the government office towers are in the downtown area.   Look at the wiring when looking at a home.  Yes, even buyers can see knob-and-tube and not be surprised when the house inspector tells you it is there.

What is it.  This type of wiring gets its name from the ceramic knobs that secure the wire and the ceramic tubes that are used to pass the wire through joists and other wood framing. 

Insurance Issue.  More and more, insurance companies are hesitant or refusing to insure a home with knob-and-tube wiring.  This type of wiring, in itself, is not dangerous but because of the age (installed pre-1950s) there could be insulation breakdown.  Also, during that construction period, most homes had 60 amp service.  With our increased use of electrical appliances and gadgets, there are an increased risks of overload.  If knob-and-tube wiring is in the basement near heating ducts and copper plumbing pipes,  it will probably have to be replaced. 

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Be cautious when looking at any home to purchase.  Don’t let the home inspector surprise you with the news of knob-in-tube.   Look wise.  The hidden or future cost may be an electrical upgrade for the home. 

Photo Credit:  Knob, Tube at http://www.flickr.com/photos/editor/117327462/

Valerie Zinger ~ Ottawa, Canada ~ Ph. 613-723-5300 ~ Email vzinger@royallepage.ca

Comments

One Response to “The Ottawa House - Knob-and-Tube Wiring”

  1. Knob-and-tube Wiring on August 6th, 2008 8:16 pm

    What a crazy Wednesday. Thanks for the ttawa House - Knob-and-Tube Wiring : Ottawa Real Estate page. Best Knob-and-tube wiring information I’ve found. My site is http://www.gregorygarver.com if you’re interested.

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