Do You Still Have Knob and Tube Wiring?
Knob and tube wiring was common in homes built before the 1940s. While it was considered safe at the time, most homes with this wiring have been modified over decades, which can create risks.
In many cases we see:
- IOverloaded circuits
- IHidden splices inside walls
- IWiring buried under insulation
- PUngrounded outlets
- PDIY modifications
These issues can increase the risk of electrical problems and may even affect home insurance coverage.
Signs Your Home May Need a Rewire
- IFlickering or dimming lights
- ITwo-prong outlets throughout the home
- IFrequently tripping breakers or blown fuses
- PWarm outlets or switches
- PYour insurance company requires knob and tube removal
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have the wiring evaluated by a professional.
What Happens During a Knob and Tube Replacement?
When we replace knob and tube wiring, we remove unsafe wiring and install a modern electrical system designed for today’s electrical demands.
This typically includes:
- IModern grounded wiring
- IProper junction boxes and connections
- INew circuits where needed
- PUpdated outlets and switches
- PElectrical work completed to current code standards
At the end of the project, your home will have a safer, more reliable electrical system designed for modern appliances and technology.
Rewiring an Older Home Requires the Right Team
Whole-home rewiring is one of the most complex electrical projects a homeowner can take on. It requires experience working with older homes, thoughtful planning, and a team that respects your space.
Our approach focuses on:
Clear Planning and Communication
Before work begins, we walk you through the scope of the project, access points, expected wall openings, and timeline so there are no surprises.
Proper Permits and Inspections
Electrical work must meet strict safety standards. We handle the permitting process and coordinate inspections as required.
Respect for Your Home
Older homes require care. We protect floors, keep work areas clean, and communicate daily progress so you always know what’s happening.
Practical Recommendations
Every home is different. In some cases a full rewire is the best option, while in others a targeted replacement of specific circuits may be sufficient.
We help you understand your options so you can make the right decision.
Our Rewire Process
1. Home Electrical Assessment
We inspect the electrical system to determine where knob and tube wiring exists, how circuits are currently configured, and what upgrades may be needed.
2. Detailed Estimate and Plan
You receive a clear explanation of the work required, whether that means a full rewire, partial replacement, or targeted upgrades.
3. Permits and Scheduling
If permits are required, we handle the process and schedule the project at a time that works for you.
4. Electrical Installation
Our electricians replace outdated wiring, upgrade devices where necessary, and keep the jobsite organized and clean.
5. Inspection and Project Completion
Once the work is complete, inspections are performed and documentation can be provided if your insurance company requires proof of replacement.
Ways Homeowners Often Upgrade During a Rewire
Many homeowners choose to improve their electrical system at the same time they replace knob and tube wiring.
Common upgrades include:
Electrical Panel Upgrades
A modern electrical panel provides more capacity for today’s electrical needs and prepares your home for additions like EV chargers, heat pumps, and new appliances.
Grounding Improvements
Proper grounding protects electronics and improves overall electrical safety.
New Dedicated Circuits
We can add circuits for areas that typically need them most, such as:
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Laundry areas
Home offices
Basements or workshops
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my house has knob and tube wiring?
In many homes it can be seen in basements or attics as ceramic knobs and tubes supporting the wiring. However, the best way to confirm is through a professional inspection.
Will walls need to be opened?
Sometimes, yes. However, we work to minimize openings by using basements, attics, closets, and other pathways whenever possible.
How long does a whole-home rewire take?
The timeline depends on the size of the home, accessibility, and how much wiring needs to be replaced. After the assessment, we provide a realistic schedule.
Will the power be off during the project?
There may be short planned power interruptions during certain phases of the work. We coordinate this with homeowners to minimize disruption.
Will replacing knob and tube help with insurance?
Many insurance companies require knob and tube wiring to be removed. Once replaced, we can provide documentation if needed.
Testimonials / Reviews
Our Customers Love Us & You Will, Too
Pat Lee
Bill from Akian Plumbing was extremely professional, friendly, responsive, and service oriented. He arrived on time in a mask, gloves, and booties. He immediately diagnosed the issue with our toilet, carried out the repair quickly and expertly for a reasonable price, and then checked in on any other issues we might have while he was there. We couldn’t have been happier with Bill’s amazing service and will certainly turn to Akian again in the future for our plumbing needs.
Mara H.
Via Yelp Reviews
Professional and quick service. I found all the staff to be very helpful and friendly. Appreciated that they were easy to get ahold of and gave me an accurate window of when they would arrive. Followed covid precautions and social distancing well. The staff was very knowledgeable and answered all my questions and made great suggestions for general and quick maintenance that would save me money in the long run. Also found their quotes to be competitive.
William Stearns
Via Google Reviews
It was easy to book and I was able to get an appointment quickly. Bill showed up on time and was professional, clearly experienced, did immaculate work and also installed an additional piece that will save me on future maintenance.
Cost was totally reasonable and will be using Akian as my plumber going forward.
Greg
Used them for three projects, one of which was an emergency job. Each time they responded very promptly and professionally. Their work is top notch and I would recommend them in a heart beat.
Karin
Akian Plumbing was friendly, efficient, and affordable. I appreciated that they were very straightforward with their pricing and also offered excellent customer service. They replaced my water heater and did an excellent job (they also charged hundreds of dollars less than all the other companies I quoted ahead of time). I absolutely plan to hire them again in the future!
Justin
I’ve used Steve and his team across several properties (each with their own nuances), and they do phenomenal work. They are prompt, efficient, flexible, fair, and perhaps most importantly, transparent. They will illustrate what happened, how it happened, provide mitigation strategies, and things to avoid in general.
Areas of Service
Serving customers in Watertown, Newton & beyond
Belmont, MA
Waltham, MA
Brookline, MA
Chestnut Hill, MA
Allston, MA
Boston, MA
Somerville., MA