Replace Old, Unsafe Wiring, Toronto

The type of wiring that your home currently has can depend on its age and the last time that renovations were done by the previous owner. For modern homes, it’s likely that they have the most up-to-date copper wiring, while older homes typically have more outdated systems like aluminum wiring (popularized from the 1960s to mid-1970s when copper was still relatively expensive) and knob and tube wiring (an earlier open-wire system used during the first wave of residential electrical installations between the 1900s to 1950s).

Older wiring should be assessed for its condition, past alterations and suitability for your home’s electrical needs. We explain maintenance, repair or rewiring options based on the findings. Since electrical wiring tends to be hidden behind walls and are by design meant to be concealed, it’s easy to forget about its importance in the healthy functioning of your home. However, now more than ever, replace your old, unsafe wiring to live safely and hassle-free without the annoyances (and dangers) of tripping breakers, dying outlets, and flickering lights.

A house that has aged for some decades is likely ready for an electrical wiring upgrade, as it’s bound to cause problems around the home. With how far technology has come within just the last 10 years, homes wired with older and weaker systems are unlikely to be compatible with the modern electrical needs of today and the future going forward. Having your electrical distribution equipment up-to-date is especially crucial for safety reasons, as statistics show that faulty wiring and outlets are one of the top causes of residential structural loss, causing an average of hundreds of house fires per year.

Especially for knob and tube wiring, which is connected by distinct white ceramic knobs/tubes, wrapped in a rubberized cloth, and suspended into the air (lacking grounding), the risk of electrocution and fires is increased significantly due to its exposed nature and tendency to overheat. Knob and tube wiring is usually found in basements and attics, but can even be hidden behind walls by previous homeowners worried about insurance issues, since companies tend to be hesitant about insuring homes with outdated and unsafe wiring.

Aluminum wiring became popular for its malleability and lightweight properties, making it easy to work with and use over long distances. Back before copper wiring was more accessible, aluminum was seen as much more cost-effective, but over time it’s become more apparent that its softness can present a fire hazard due to its tendency to come loose from terminals, fray, and wear down. Although still viable as of 2021, the ESA recommends that it be maintained and inspected by a professional every 3-5 years. Making the switch to copper wiring can reduce this need and save you money on maintenance costs.

The longer you leave electrical distribution systems to age, the more expensive replacing them tends to become. It’s first imperative to have your home assessed, having a licensed professional check behind the walls, to determine whether re-wiring is needed and what the best course of action to take is.

Contact MADE ELECTRIC for more information on replacing old, unsafe wiring! We operate within the GTA to assess the safety of your home and ensure that it’s operating with the safest possible wiring system.