The type of wiring in your home will depend on when it was built. Roughly one-third of the homes in the U.S. are over 50 years old, and older homes are statistically at higher risk of electrical fires. Deterioration due to aging, improper installation and modification, a lack of modern safety devices, combined with today's electrical intensive households all combine to increase the risk of electrical fires in older homes. By understanding what outdated wiring looks like, you can learn of your home is at greater risk. Depending on the age of the home, you will find one of three kinds of wiring.
Grounded Electrical Systems
Homes built in the 1940s through the present will have grounded electrical systems. Grounding is a critical safety feature that is designed to reduce the chance of shock or electrocution in the event of a short circuit. Grounding wires are connected directly to the earth through a metal grounding rod or a cold water pipe. Should a short circuit or an overload occur, any extra electricity will find its way along the grounding wire to the earth.
Aluminum Wiring
As the price of copper soared, aluminum wiring became more common in the 1960s and 1970s. Many of the receptacles and switched of the time we not designed to work with aluminum wire, resulting in bad fitting connections and a greater risk of fire. If your home has aluminum wiring that was installed in the 1960s or 70s have ABC perform a safety inspection to ensure it is safe and up to code.
Knob & Tube Wiring
The earliest type of wiring found in homes built in the 1800s through the 1930s, knob and tube wiring is an open air system that uses ceramic knobs to keep wires away from combustible framing. These suspended wires were directed through ceramic tubes to prevent contact with the wood framing and starting a fire. Knob and tube wiring is a fire hazard because it's not grounded and is more exposed to damage from old and faulty modification. Have questions about your home's wiring? Call ABC, we're here to help.
ABC Plumbing Locations
Arlington Heights, IL220 W Campus Dr | Largo, FL11701 S Belcher Rd Suite 127 |
Downers Grove, IL1001 Ogden Ave LL4 | Tampa, FL4326 W El Prado Blvd Suite 7 |
Evanston, IL828 Davis St UNIT 205 | |
Our Blog
VIEW ALL BLOGSReasons to Get an AC Tune-Up
-
Signs It's Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner
Your air conditioning system becomes an unsung hero for home comfort during the summer. When your AC shows signs of wear, you face that critical decision: Should I repair or replace it? Understanding the warning signs that signal it’s time for replacement can save money, prevent breakdowns during peak season, and ensure year-round comfort.READ MORE -
Tankless vs. Tank Water Heater: Which One is Right for You?
Your home's water heater is a considerable investment in home comfort and convenience. When the time comes to replace it, keep this in mind: whichever type of water heater you choose, you'll be living with that decision for over a decade. Hot water is an essential part of our daily lives, whether it's for showering, washing dishes, or tackling laundry.READ MORE -
What is Freon & Why is it Important?
Freon is a specialized refrigerant that plays a critical role in your home’s air conditioning system by facilitating the heat transfer process that cools indoor air temperatures. Understanding what freon is used for has become increasingly important for homeowners who want to make informed decisions about their home comfort and environmental stewardship.READ MORE
Our Promises To You
-
Convenient For You
We Work on Your Schedule
-
Background Checks
We do Drug Tests And Background Checks Before Hiring
-
No Need For Stress
Get ABCs Worry-Free Guarantee at No Cost
-
No Surprises
Pricing is By the Job, Not the Hour