How to Use Aluminum Wiring Safely in Your Home

Introduction

Aluminum wiring became popular in homes built between 1965 and 1973 because it was less expensive than copper wiring. However, aluminum wiring is known to present fire hazards if not properly maintained. As a homeowner with aluminum wiring, you can take steps to use it safely. This article will provide an in-depth guide on identifying, inspecting, and maintaining aluminum wiring to protect your home and family.

Identifying Aluminum Wiring

The first step is to identify if your home has aluminum wiring. Here are some ways to check:

• Inspect the circuit breaker panel - Aluminum wiring will be connected to aluminum colored breakers. Copper wiring uses copper or tan colored breakers.

• Check wire material labels - Open an outlet or switch and look for printing on the wires that specifies "AL" or "aluminum". Copper wire is labeled "CU" or "copper".

• Consult an electrician - A qualified electrician can inspect your home's wiring and conclusively identify if aluminum is present.

If you have an older home but are uncertain if it has aluminum wiring, it's best to have an electrician inspect to be 100% sure.

Dangers and Risks of Aluminum Wiring

Aluminum wiring is a fire hazard because it's more likely to overheat and fail at connections. This can lead to electrical fires. There are two main risks:

• Oxidation - Aluminum oxidizes over time, forming a non-conductive coating that increases resistance. This causes wires to overheat.

• Expansion and contraction - Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper. This can loosen wire connections, leading to arcing, sparks, and fires.

Copper is more resistant to oxidation and movement so does not present the same risks.

Inspecting Your Aluminum Wiring

Once you confirm your home has aluminum wiring, it's critical to thoroughly inspect it. Here's how:

• Check all connections at outlets, switches, light fixtures, the breaker panel, and the main service panel. Signs of trouble include melted plastic, flickering lights, or discolored wires.

• Use an outlet tester to detect loose connections that are overheating. A failing outlet will show an incorrect wiring pattern.

• Hire an electrician to do a professional inspection using thermal imaging cameras, outlet testers, and precision tools to uncover any lurking fire hazards.

Routine inspections by a qualified electrician are essential to stay ahead of problems with aluminum wiring.

Tips for Maintaining Aluminum Wiring

Here are crucial maintenance tips to use aluminum wiring safely:

• Use copalum/ALR connections - Special connectors designed for joining copper to aluminum are safer than traditional connections. Have an electrician install them.

• Avoid overloading circuits - Overloaded circuits generate excessive heat which aluminum wiring cannot dissipate quickly. Use proper wattage bulbs and avoid plugging too many appliances into outlets.

• Keep connections tight - Check wires are tightly secured with no looseness or corrosion. A loose connection heats up and could start a fire.

• Don't use aluminum for high-draw appliances - Avoid aluminum wiring for large appliances like dryers, stoves and air conditioners which draw a lot of power. Use copper for these connections.

• Insulate wires - Exposed aluminum wiring oxidizes faster. Use wire nuts and electrical tape to fully insulate wires and prevent corrosion.

When to Call an Electrician

Some aluminum wiring situations warrant calling a licensed electrician immediately:

• You see discolored or warm switches or outlets - This indicates overheating connections that are a major fire hazard.

• Flickering lights point to loose wiring that needs urgent attention to prevent arcing faults.

• Old outlets and switches should be replaced with copalum models to handle aluminum safely. Improper connections are dangerous.

• For large upgrades or repairs, hire an electrician rather than doing it yourself. Improper work with aluminum wiring can be unsafe.

• If an inspection reveals issues, have an electrician make repairs right away. Small problems can quickly become big hazards.

Conclusion

While aluminum wiring can be concerning, it can be used safely by taking proactive precautions like routine inspections, using special connections, avoiding overloads, and hiring electricians for critical repairs and upgrades. Pay close attention to your aluminum wiring and address any issues immediately to protect your home from electrical fires. With proper maintenance, you can reap the benefits of aluminum's lower cost without risk.