How to Safely Work with Aluminum House Wiring

Introduction

Aluminum wiring became very popular in American homes built between 1965 and 1973 due to the high cost of copper at the time. However, aluminum wiring has been linked to certain fire hazards that require special safety precautions. In this guide, I will cover the key things you need to know to safely work with aluminum wiring in your home.

Checking if You Have Aluminum Wiring

The first step is to check if your home's electrical system utilizes aluminum wiring. Here's how to identify it:

• Look at the breaker box - Aluminum wiring will be connected to both the breakers and the neutral bus bar. Copper wiring will have a copper or orange/yellow color while aluminum is colored gray or silver.

• Check the wire markings - Wiring marked "Al" or "AL" denotes aluminum. Copper wire is labeled "Cu" or "Copper".

• Examine the wire composition - Bend back a section of wire in an outlet or switch box to inspect it. Aluminum will be dull gray rather than copper's orange/yellow shine.

If you confirm the presence of aluminum wiring, read on to learn about working with it safely.

Risks of Aluminum Wiring

Compared to copper, aluminum wiring carries some important risks to be aware of:

• Expansion/contraction - Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper. This can loosen wire connection points over time.

• Oxidation - Aluminum oxidizes when exposed to air. This makes connections progressively weaker.

• Lower conductivity - Aluminum has only 61% of copper's conductivity. More current flow generates heat that further accelerates oxidation.

These factors can ultimately lead to loose connections, flickering lights,Tripped breakers, damaged appliances, and increased fire hazards if aluminum wiring is not properly maintained.

Safety Tips for Working with Aluminum Wiring

Here are some vital electrical safety guidelines for aluminum wiring:

Use the Right Connectors

• Special connectors designed for aluminum wire called CO/ALR (copper/aluminum revised) connectors must be used. Normal copper connectors will eventually fail.

• CO/ALR connectors are filled with a special compound that reduces oxidation and prevents loosening. Always replace old-style connectors.

Prevent Overheating

• Overheating accelerates connection failure. Use the correct wire size for the amperage rating of the circuit breaker. Upsize wiring if needed.

• Keep connections tight. Check for loose plugs, switches and outlets. Replace damaged receptacles.

• Avoid overloading circuits. Don't "piggyback" connections or daisy-chain power strips.

Regular Maintenance

• Check all connections, switches, and outlets once a year for signs of heat damage or loosening. Tighten or replace as needed.

• Hire an electrician immediately if you see discoloration, melted plastic, flickering lights, or tripped breakers.

Safety Equipment

• Keep an ABC fire extinguisher easily accessible when working with electrical wiring.

• Wear insulated gloves and use insulated tools for added protection.

• Turn the power off at the breaker box while servicing aluminum wiring.

When to Seek Professional Help

You should always hire a licensed electrician for:

• Major aluminum re-wiring projects. Professionals have the tools and expertise to safely handle large-scale jobs.

• Upgrading the electrical service entrance panel or replacing the main circuit breaker.

• Rewiring old fuse boxes to modern circuit breaker panels.

• Running any new wiring in homes with aluminum. Use CO/ALR rated wiring.

• Any signs of loose connections, overheating or short circuits during inspection.

Conclusion

While aluminum wiring can increase fire risks if neglected, you can work with it safely by using proper connectors, preventing overheating, performing regular maintenance, and calling an electrician when needed. Stay vigilant, follow safety procedures, and ensure all connections are secure. With prudent care, your aluminum wiring can provide reliable electrical service.