still have knob and tube wiring? it's time to replace it asap!

If you live in an older home (one that was built in or prior to the 1940s), you may have heard about knob and tube wiring. While it might have been a revolutionary electrical system back in the day, it's just not up to modern safety standards. So, if your home still has knob and tube wiring, it's important to replace it ASAP. But here's the thing - this is definitely not a DIY project. You need to hire a licensed electrician in Windsor, Ontario to do the job right.

Why, you ask? Well, for starters, knob and tube wiring can be dangerous. It lacks the safety features that modern wiring systems have, and the insulation can deteriorate over time, increasing the risk of electrical shocks and fires. Plus, knob and tube wiring may not be able to handle the electrical demands of today's homes. If you try to DIY this, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk.

Plus, aside from safety concerns, there's the issue of insufficient capacity to handle modern electrical demands.  AND there's the issue of insurance and compliance where if your property is still outfitted with outdated wiring, you won't be eligible for home insurance or your home premium prices will be through the roof, so to speak.


Case Study

At Electricians Windsor, we recently helped a homeowner in Walkerville, one of Windsor’s historic neighbourhoods known for its charming early-20th-century homes, replace outdated knob and tube wiring with a safe, modern electrical system. The homeowner had been experiencing flickering lights, limited outlet use, and growing concerns after their home insurance provider raised red flags during a renewal inspection. Many homes in Walkerville and surrounding areas like Ford City and Riverside still contain original wiring, and according to the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA), homes built before 1950 often carry the risk of electrical fires due to the outdated and ungrounded nature of knob and tube systems. Our team carefully removed the existing wiring, updated the electrical panel, and installed grounded circuits throughout the house—all while preserving the home's original structure and plaster walls. The result was not only a safer home but also a significantly higher electrical capacity to support modern appliances, home offices, and even a future EV charger.

By completing this upgrade, the homeowner avoided several serious consequences. First and foremost, they eliminated a major fire hazard—according to Windsor Fire & Rescue Services, electrical issues remain one of the top causes of residential fires in the city. Additionally, their home insurance premiums dropped substantially, as many insurers either charge a higher rate or refuse coverage altogether if knob and tube wiring is present. They also increased their home's resale value; homes with updated electrical systems in Windsor can sell for 5%–10% more on average, especially in competitive neighbourhoods with older housing stock. With Windsor’s real estate market remaining strong (the average home price hovering around $540,000 in 2024), this upgrade positioned the homeowner for future financial benefits while immediately enhancing safety, energy efficiency, and peace of mind. At Electricians Windsor, we’re proud to help protect families and their homes by bringing outdated electrical systems into the 21st century.


So, bottom line - if you have knob and tube wiring in your home, call a licensed electrician to replace it. It's a small price to pay for peace of mind and a safer home.

---