I want to share my experience and advice for safely working with aluminum wiring in your home. Aluminum wiring was commonly installed in American homes built between 1965 and 1973. While safe if properly installed and maintained, aluminum wiring does require special precautions.
Dangers and Risks of Aluminum Wiring
Aluminum wiring carries higher amounts of electricity than copper wiring of the same size. However, aluminum expands and contracts more than copper. Over time, this can loosen connections and lead to overheating, arching, and potential fires.
The greatest risks come from loose connections. Poor installations, improper maintenance, and even temperature changes can all loosen connections between the aluminum wire and devices like outlets and switches.
Loose connections create heat buildup as electricity passes through. This heat can degrade and corrode the wire, making it expand and contract even more. Ultimately, the loose connection sparks a fire.
Signs You Have Aluminum Wiring
Here are the signs that your home likely contains aluminum wiring:
-
Your home was built between 1965 and 1973 - This was the prime era of aluminum wiring installation.
-
Check the wiring material label on your electrical panel - It may directly state "Aluminum Wiring".
-
Inspect the wire's color and markings - Aluminum wire is identified by its dull gray coating compared to copper's orange/yellow color. The wiring may also be labeled "AL".
-
Look for CO/ALR switches and outlets - CO/ALR marked devices are designed to work safely with aluminum wiring.
-
See if wires connect to aluminum branched circuit fuse boxes or breakers.
If you see any of these signs, assume you have aluminum wiring unless an electrician verifies otherwise.
Dangers by Wire Type
Not all aluminum wiring presents the same amount of danger:
-
Branch circuit wiring - The most dangerous type, used for outlets, switches, and lighting. Loose connections here are most likely to overheat and cause fires. This should be inspected regularly.
-
Service entrance wiring - Connects your main electrical panel to the outside utility lines. Less dangerous than branch circuits, but still needs inspection.
-
"Pigtailing" - Copper wires pigtailed to aluminum wiring is especially prone to overheating. The different metals expand/contract at different rates, loosening connections.
Preventing Fires and Risks
If you have aluminum wiring, here are key steps you must take to stay safe:
Inspections
-
Hire a qualified electrician to thoroughly inspect your aluminum wiring and connections. They should use special testing devices to measure heat and resistance at connections.
-
Inspections should occur annually at a minimum, or anytime you suspect a problem.
-
The electrician can isolate any loose connections and improperly installed wires.
Repairs
-
For loose connections, the wires should be re-terminated properly, or spliced to a short copper "pigtail" using special connectors rated for aluminum. Never simply re-tighten loose aluminum connections.
-
Any improperly installed wiring should be fixed to meet code. Cracked or damaged wires must be replaced.
Safety Devices
-
AFCI circuit breakers should be installed - These "Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters" detect dangerous arcs and heat before fires start and shut off power.
-
CO/ALR switches/outlets - These devices are specifically rated for safely connecting to aluminum wiring using set-screws or pressure plates. Never use standard COPPER RATED switches and outlets.
Homeowner Precautions
As the homeowner, you should also:
-
Turn off or unplug devices connected to aluminum wiring before sleeping or leaving your home.
-
Avoid overloading circuits with too many devices connected. Overloads increase heat risk.
-
Carefully check for cracking/damage to wiring insulation before touching.
-
Keep connections tight by minimizing vibration near wires.
-
Never attempt to modify or disturb wires yourself - hire an electrician.
Proper installation and annual inspections by a qualified electrician are key. With vigilance and the right safety steps, aluminum wiring can be managed safely. But negligence is risky - be sure to take this seriously in your home.
Finding an Experienced Electrician
When hiring an electrician, make sure they are fully experienced working with aluminum wiring:
-
Ask about their specific training and certification for inspecting and repairing aluminum wiring. There are specialized courses.
-
Find out how many past aluminum wiring projects they have taken on. Expertise comes from experience.
-
Request references from past clients with aluminum wiring and call them.
-
Confirm they have the proper testing equipment for finding loose connections - like a Solenoid Micro-Ohmmeter.
-
Ask if they use copper pigtailing and CO/ALR rated devices when making repairs. If not, move on.
-
Avoid any electricians that say aluminum wiring is safe if left alone. This wiring needs proactive inspection and maintenance.
Take the time to find a qualified electrician you trust to keep your home's aluminum wiring safe. It is well worth it.
Is Aluminum Wiring Worth Replacing?
Given the risks, you may consider fully replacing aluminum wiring instead of maintaining it. However, cost is often prohibitive:
-
For a 2000 sq ft home, re-wiring costs average $8,000 to $15,000. The labor involved makes it expensive.
-
You may be able to selectively replace only the most risky branch circuit wiring for a lower cost. Get quotes from electricians.
-
Financial assistance may be available through insurance companies, HUD, or your state/local government if you cannot afford re-wiring costs.
-
Weigh the long-term costs of maintenance vs one-time costs of re-wiring.
While aluminum wiring can be kept safe if properly maintained, re-wiring may make sense if you can afford the upfront cost. Speak to professionals to determine the best solution for your home.
Living Safely with Aluminum Wiring
If removing all aluminum wiring is unrealistic, here is advice for living safely:
-
Actively monitor and inspect wiring. Check for cracking, heat scorch marks, or melting. Shut off damaged wiring and call an electrician immediately.
-
Keep connections tight by minimizing vibration near wires from slamming doors, feet pounding floorboards, etc. This loosens connections over time.
-
Never overload circuits or daisy chain power strips. Overloads cause heat buildup.
-
Ensure proper grounding exists - ask an electrician to confirm. Proper grounding helps prevent fires.
-
Consider owning a fire extinguisher and smoke alarms, just in case.
While diligence is required, aluminum wiring can be managed safely with proper precautions. Stay alert and hire a knowledgeable electrician for repairs to keep your home and family protected.