How to Use Aluminum Wiring Without Burning Down Your House

The Risks of Aluminum Wiring

Aluminum wiring became popular in homes built between 1965 and 1973 because it is less expensive than copper wiring. However, aluminum wiring is known to present fire hazards if not properly installed and maintained. The main risks include:

• Oxidation - Aluminum oxidizes over time, causing connections to loosen. This can lead to overheating at outlets and switches.

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

• Incompatibility with devices - Many switches, outlets, and wire connectors are designed for copper wiring. Using them with aluminum wiring can cause overheating.

Improving Safety of Existing Aluminum Wiring

If your home already has aluminum wiring, here are some tips to improve safety:

• Inspect connections - Check for loose, damaged, and overheated connections at outlets and switches. These should be repaired by an electrician.

• Use CO/ALR switches and outlets - Replace standard switches and outlets with CO/ALR-rated ones designed for use with aluminum wiring. DO NOT use copper-only devices.

• Use anti-oxidant paste - Electricians can apply a special anti-oxidant paste to connections to prevent oxidation and loosening.

• Repigtail connections - One option is to attach a short section of copper wire (pigtail) to existing aluminum wires. This prevents copper-aluminum contact in devices.

• Rewire with copper - Though expensive, rewiring your home with copper wiring will eliminate aluminum-related hazards.

Safely Installing New Aluminum Wiring

If you're wiring a new construction or remodel project, aluminum wiring can still be used safely by following these guidelines:

• Use only AA-8000 series aluminum alloy wiring. This type is designed to be more compatible with copper components.

• Use CO/ALR-rated devices such as switches and outlets designed to be used with aluminum wiring.

• Avoid dissimilar metal contact between aluminum wiring and copper components by using copper pigtails or anti-oxidant paste.

• Follow all electrical codes for proper wire size, connections, and circuit protection when installing aluminum wiring.

• Have wiring installed by a licensed, experienced electrician who is trained to work with aluminum wiring. Improper connections can cause fire hazards.

Inspecting and Maintaining Aluminum Wiring

Here are some tips for ongoing inspection and maintenance of aluminum wiring:

• Check connections at outlets and switches regularly for signs of loosening, overheating, or oxidation. Tighten or repair as needed.

• When making changes to wiring, use only CO/ALR-rated devices and make aluminum-to-copper connections carefully to avoid oxidation.

• Have wiring inspected periodically by an electrician. They can check for problems you may miss.

• Test arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCIs) monthly to ensure proper functioning. AFCIs help protect against fires.

• When doing renovations, take the opportunity to replace aluminum wiring with copper if feasible.

Proper installation, maintenance, and inspection are key to using aluminum wiring safely. While the risks can never be fully eliminated, they can be minimized by following the recommendations above. If in doubt, consult with a qualified electrician.