What Homeowners Should Know About Outdated Electrical Systems

If your home was built before the 1950s, there’s a chance it still has knob and tube wiring. It’s a question many homeowners in North Idaho face: Can you live with knob and tube wiring? While this old-school system might still function, it poses real safety and insurance concerns that are worth understanding.

What Is Knob and Tube Wiring?

Knob and tube (K&T) wiring was standard in homes built in the early 20th century. It uses ceramic knobs and tubes to run single-insulated wires through walls and ceilings. While innovative in its time, it lacks a grounding wire and wasn’t designed to handle the demands of modern appliances.

Can You Live With It?

Technically, yes—but that doesn’t mean you should. If it’s intact and hasn’t been modified, knob and tube can still function. However, there are several risks and limitations:

• No grounding – Increases the risk of electrical shock and damage to electronics

• Aging insulation – Over time, the rubber or cloth insulation can become brittle and flake off, exposing bare wires

• Overloaded circuits – K&T wasn’t built to support today’s heavy electrical loads

• Limited insurance coverage – Many insurance companies won’t cover homes with active K&T wiring

• Installation restrictions – You can’t cover it with insulation, which makes energy upgrades more complicated

Why Replacing Knob and Tube Wiring Is a Smart Move

Even if your home’s old wiring seems to work fine, that doesn’t mean it’s safe. Upgrading to a modern electrical system with proper grounding helps prevent electrical fires, protects your home’s appliances, and ensures code compliance.

A modern electrical upgrade can also improve your home’s resale value and reduce your insurance premiums. At J.A. Bertsch Heating, Cooling & Electrical, our licensed electricians can evaluate your current wiring and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution for your home.

Serving North Idaho with Trusted Electrical Solutions

We provide professional knob and tube wiring replacement and electrical inspections in Coeur d’Alene, Post Falls, Hayden, Rathdrum, Sandpoint, and Spirit Lake. Whether you’re buying an older home or simply want peace of mind, we’re here to help.

Call the Pros Who Know Old Wiring

Living with knob and tube wiring might be legal, but it doesn’t mean it’s safe—or worth the risk. Let our expert electricians help you decide what’s best for your home and family.

Ready to upgrade your electrical system? Schedule a professional inspection to learn more about our electrical services today.

FAQs

Is knob and tube wiring still legal?

Yes, knob and tube wiring is still legal in many areas, including parts of North Idaho. However, “legal” doesn’t mean it’s safe or up to code for modern electrical use. While local building codes may not require immediate removal, any new electrical work typically must meet current standards—which knob and tube does not. If you’re planning any renovations or upgrades, you’ll likely need to replace the old wiring.

How safe are knobs and tube?

Knob and tube wiring was considered safe when it was first introduced, but today, it falls far short of modern safety standards. It lacks a ground wire, which increases the risk of electrical shock, and the insulation around the wires tends to become brittle with age. Overheating, short circuits, and fire hazards are more common in homes with aging knob and tube systems—especially when those systems have been modified over the years.

Should you remove knob and tube?

If your home still has active knob and tube wiring, it’s strongly recommended to remove and replace it. While it might still function, it’s not designed for today’s high-power appliances or technology. Replacing it not only increases your home’s safety and energy efficiency, but also helps ensure your electrical system is code-compliant for future upgrades.

Is it illegal to sell a house with knobs and tubes?

No, it’s not illegal to sell a home with knob and tube wiring, but it can complicate the sale. Many homebuyers and lenders see outdated wiring as a red flag. In some cases, buyers may require a full electrical upgrade before closing, or they may use the wiring as leverage to negotiate a lower price. A professional electrical inspection can help you understand what may be required before listing.

Can you insure a home with knob and tube wiring?

It depends on the insurance provider. Some insurance companies refuse to cover homes with active knob and tube wiring due to the increased fire risk. Others may offer limited coverage or higher premiums. Replacing your wiring with a modern system can improve your insurability and potentially lower your monthly insurance costs.

Need help determining if it’s time to upgrade your electrical system? Schedule an electrical inspection to get started with expert advice from J.A. Bertsch Heating, Cooling & Electrical.