| Knob and tube wiring was an early American | | | | II, household power increased. Modern appliances |
| electrical wiring system. This wiring was commonly | | | | were bought and plugged in any where in the |
| used in residential areas from the late 1880's to | | | | home. This caused many fuses to blow. When |
| the 1930's. It is a copper wire that connects | | | | you overuse the circuit, there are higher levels of |
| through walls by going through a porcelain tube. It | | | | current that may cause heat damage. Most |
| is supported and nailed down on porcelain knobs. | | | | houses back then had one circuit for lights in the |
| Years ago, most homes only had electrical lights. | | | | whole house and very little else. |
| These days may homes have several appliances | | | | We have a lot more than just lights in today's |
| to help make our lives easier. But if you buy a | | | | houses. There are microwaves, toaster ovens, |
| house that has knob and tube wiring, it may not | | | | electric stoves and ovens, blenders, mixers, |
| be able to support today's electrical appliances. | | | | coffee and cappuccino makers. These appliances |
| Here are three disadvantages of this type of | | | | are mentioned for the kitchen. What about the |
| wiring.o In line splices were permitted with knob | | | | rest of your house? Knob and tube wiring can not |
| and tube wiring.o Grounding conductor was never | | | | handle today's wiring necessities. If you want a |
| included in this type of wiring.o Did not confine | | | | modern house, you need a modern electrical |
| switching to the hot conductor. | | | | system, one that supports your energy efficient |
| As technology and conveniences improved, most | | | | designs. |
| house wiring could not keep up. After World War | | | | |