Aluminum wiring became a popular way to wire homes in the 1960s and 1970s because it was less expensive than copper wiring. However, aluminum wiring has been linked to certain fire hazards if it is not properly installed and maintained. As a homeowner, it's important to know how to check for aluminum wiring and make repairs if needed to keep your home safe. Here's what you need to know about inspecting, maintaining, and repairing aluminum wiring in your home.
Inspecting for Aluminum Wiring
The first step is to inspect your home's electrical system to determine if you have aluminum wiring. Here's how to check:
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Examine the breaker box - Open the door and look at the writing on the circuit breakers. If they say "CO/ALR" it indicates they are rated for aluminum wiring.
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Check wiring connections - Shut off power and remove outlet and switch cover plates. Examine the wires connected to the outlets and switches. Aluminum wiring is the color of aluminum and will be labeled "Al."
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Consider the age of your home - Homes built between 1965 and 1973 are more likely to have aluminum wiring than copper.
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Consult an electrician - If you are unsure, hire an experienced electrician to inspect and test your home's wiring. They can verify if aluminum wiring is present.
Dangers of Aluminum Wiring
Aluminum wiring is considered less safe than copper for a few important reasons:
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Aluminum expands and contracts more with temperature changes. This can loosen connections over time. Loose connections generate heat that can cause fires.
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Aluminum wires typically use wire nuts rated for copper wires. This increases the fire risks if connections become loose.
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Bare aluminum wires touching other materials can cause corrosion and loose connections.
If your home has aluminum wiring, it's wise to have it inspected and repaired to reduce safety risks.
Repairing Aluminum Wiring
There are three main ways to repair aluminum wiring in your home:
1. Pigtailing
This involves attaching a short copper wire segment (pigtail) to the aluminum wire with a special connector. The copper wire is then connected to the outlet or switch.
Benefits:
- Joins copper and aluminum safely and reduces fire risks
- Allows use of normal copper rated wire nuts
Considerations:
- More time consuming than other methods
- Requires working inside junction boxes and accessing wires
2. COPALUM Crimp Connectors
These special connectors are designed to join copper and aluminum wires safely. They crimp tightly over wires inserted into the connector.
Benefits:
- Quick installation that doesn't require junction box access
- Lab certified for safety with aluminum wires
Considerations:
- Requires proper crimping tool
- Wires remain different metals instead of converting to copper
3. AlumiConn Connectors
These connectors convert the aluminum wire's end into copper. The copper end can then be joined to outlets and switches with normal wire nuts.
Benefits:
- Permanently converts wire ends to copper
- Allows standard copper wire nuts after conversion
Considerations:
- Requires more extensive access to wire ends
- Doesn't eliminate all aluminum wire, just the ends
When to Call an Electrician
It's wise to have a professional electrician handle aluminum wiring repairs in many cases. Consider hiring an electrician if:
- You lack experience working with electrical systems
- Repairs require access inside junction boxes
- Your home has many aluminum wiring connections
- You want an overall inspection and plan for repairs
While DIY aluminum wiring repairs are possible, the risks of improper repairs are high. Consulting a pro can give you peace of mind.
Maintaining Aluminum Wiring
Even after repairs, it's important to routinely check aluminum wiring connections. Here are some maintenance tips:
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Re-tighten connections - Snug any loose wire nuts or outlets/switches. Consider adding anti-oxidant paste.
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Check wires - Examine for cracked/frayed wires which indicate damage and need replacement.
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Reduce electrical load - Don't overload circuits which can loosen connections over time.
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Have an electrician re-inspect periodically - Pay an electrician for a re-inspection every 3-5 years.
With proper repairs and ongoing maintenance, aluminum wiring can be safe. But it does require vigilance to avoid potential fire hazards. Follow these guidelines to keep your aluminum wired home in good, safe condition.