Aluminum wiring became popular in houses built between 1965 and 1973 because it was cheaper than copper. However, aluminum wiring is known to be more prone to overheating, loosening at connections, and arcing faults that can lead to fires. This does not mean aluminum wiring is inherently dangerous, but it does require special precautions and maintenance to use it safely in your home. Here is what you need to know.
Why Aluminum Wiring Can Be a Fire Hazard
Aluminum wiring conducts electricity differently than copper in 3 key ways that make it more prone to fire hazards:
1. Aluminum expands and contracts more with temperature changes
- This expansion and contraction causes connections to loosen over time. Loose connections cause overheating that can melt wires and start fires.
2. Aluminum corrodes more easily than copper
- Corrosion also contributes to loose connections and overheating.
3. Aluminum has higher electrical resistance than copper
- This higher resistance generates more heat when current flows through it. More heat means more potential for overheating and fires.
How to Make Aluminum Wiring Safe
While aluminum wiring can pose risks, there are steps you can take to use it safely:
1. Use the right connections and outlet styles
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Use only connectors labeled "CO/ALR" which are designed and tested for use with aluminum wires. Avoid connectors only meant for copper.
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Use outlets with "CO/ALR" written on the back and connectors that screw down the wires rather than stab-in connections. Backstab or push-in connections are more prone to loosening.
2. Use anti-oxidant paste
- Apply an anti-oxidant paste specially formulated for aluminum wiring to prevent corrosion at all connections. Reapply yearly.
3. Check all connections regularly
- Go around your home checking outlets, switches and light fixtures for loose connections, warmth, discoloration or melted plastic. Tighten any loose connections immediately. Consider hiring an electrician to thoroughly check all connections.
4. Have your wiring inspected
- Hire an electrician familiar with aluminum wiring to inspect your home's wiring and make repairs. Consider rewiring with copper if the wiring is extensively damaged.
5. Shut off and disconnect unused circuits
- Having fewer active circuits reduces overheating risk. Shut off and disconnect any unused or unnecessary circuits.
Warning Signs of Unsafe Aluminum Wiring
Watch for these signs of loose connections or overheating and have an electrician inspect immediately:
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Warm or melted outlets or switches - The first sign heat damage and potential fire hazard.
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Flickering lights - Can indicate a loose or corroded wire connection.
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Tingling sensations from outlets - Indicates unsafe stray electrical voltage.
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Discolored or cracked outlets/switches - Heat damage from loose connections.
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Frequent tripped circuit breakers - Overheating wires trip breakers.
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Burning or electrical smells - Ozone or burning smells mean wiring damage.
Don't ignore these warning signs. Have an electrician thoroughly inspect any suspect outlets, switches or wiring. Safety should be your top priority with aluminum wiring.
Maintaining Aluminum Wiring Over Time
Aluminum wiring requires vigilant maintenance:
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Annually - Check all connections for tightness. Apply anti-oxidant paste. Examine wires for damage.
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Every 3-5 years - Hire an electrician to inspect entire electrical system.
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When renovating - Have an electrician check any wiring you may disturb before starting.
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When selling home - Disclose aluminum wiring to buyer and suggest hiring an electrician.
Is Aluminum Wiring Worth the Risks?
The risks of aluminum wiring can likely be minimized with proper precautions, but some experts suggest avoiding it if possible:
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Rewiring old aluminum wiring with copper is expensive but eliminates the risks.
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If building or remodeling, using copper wiring avoids aluminum risks from the start.
Aluminum wiring doesn't necessarily need total replacement, but it does require knowledgeable electricians and vigilant maintenance on your part. You must stay on top of inspection, connection tightening, and monitoring wiring condition. Neglecting aluminum wiring maintenance is asking for trouble.
Conclusion
- Aluminum wiring can pose fire hazards if not properly maintained. However, with vigilant maintenance and connection checks, the risks can likely be minimized.
- Use the right connections, apply anti-oxidant paste, regularly check wires, and hire an experienced electrician to inspect the system to stay on top of aluminum wiring safety.
- Monitor wiring for warning signs like flickering lights or discolored outlets.
- Rewiring with copper eliminates the risks but is expensive.
- Staying informed, cautious and proactive is key to preventing aluminum wiring fires.