0

I know that properly working and regularly tested AFCI breakers are great for safety. But do they mitigate all safety risks imposed by knob-and-tube? If not, what safety risks remain?

For reference: our bedrooms and bathrooms have K&T. We don't use any high amperage devices in those rooms (absolutely no vacuums, gaming PCs, hair dryers, etc.) We're also not ready to chuck the money for a full rewiring quite yet.

Improve this question

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
1

"othering" is fun. That's where you identify a group as "Bad", and pretend all others are "not bad".

It's a little too easy to say "Knob & Tube = bad". They require AFCI on new construction, which isn't Knob & Tube, and isn't aluminum wires improperly placed on copper-only terminals and mistorqued. It's mandated because brand new wiring - the stuff you plan to replace the K&T with - is on the same footing as K&T, really. It fails too.

So yes -- AFCI breakers help, and will protect against arcing on any wiring. (The only place I don't see AFCI as useful is inside metal conduit, and it's always useful in bedrooms due to electric blankets.)

I would say GFCI helps more, because knob-n-tube usually means "no grounding". GFCI removes the human-safety risks from lack of grounding.

Improve this answer
2
  • I'd use "dufies" (dual function) breakers. Actually do 4 things: They have both types of arc fault protection, ground fault protection and over-current protection. Not all K&T wiring is bad, some of it was real craftsmanship. But for the most part, it's best to be rid of it eventually.
    – George Anderson
    Commented Dec 18, 2021 at 18:16
  • 1
    So, with a properly rated, properly functioning "dual function" breaker, I should be good? My electrician is saying the "wires could still overheat" and wants to do a full rewire, but I don't necessarily buy that if the breaker is rated correctly for the wire gauge.
    – Saustin
    Commented Dec 18, 2021 at 19:37

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.