Why do homes have aluminum wires?

While copper wiring has been an established standard in wiring houses since the 1950s, the copper shortage of 1965 motivated home builders to search for cheaper alternatives. The price of copper was driven up by heavy military use, making it cost-prohibitive for many builders. As a result, many homes were built with aluminum wiring, which was significantly less expensive. However, aluminum wiring is not as safe as copper and is more prone to overheating, corrosion and fires.

How can I tell if my home has aluminum wiring?

Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes built between 1965 and 1972. While it is not necessarily dangerous, aluminum wiring can cause electrical problems and is more susceptible to fire than copper wiring. If you are not sure if your home has aluminum wiring, there are a few things you can look for. The first is to check the outlets and light switches. If they are labeled "AL," this is an indication that the wiring is made of aluminum. Another way to tell is by the color of the wires. Aluminum wiring is usually silver in color, while copper wiring has a reddish hue. If you suspect that your home has aluminum wiring, it is best to have a licensed electrician come and take a look. They will be able to confirm whether or not your home has aluminum wiring and make any necessary repairs.

Is aluminum wiring safe?

While it is true that aluminum wiring is more prone to electrical fires than other types of wiring, this does not mean that it is inherently unsafe. Aluminum wiring is safe if it is properly installed and maintained. However, aluminum wiring does require more maintenance than other types of wiring. The common issues of safety around aluminum wiring tend to be at the connection points. Because aluminum expands and contracts, it can lead to loose connections over time, creating sparks and heat, posing a fire hazard.

How can I keep my family safe if I have aluminum wiring in my home?

If you have aluminum wiring in your home, there are some things you can do to keep your family safe. First, it is important to have your home inspected by a licensed electrician every three to five years. They will be able to check for any loose connections or other potential hazards. Additionally, you can have an electrician use copalum connectors or other connectors that add a copper wire connection between the aluminum wiring and your device (lights, outlets, etc). This helps to create a stronger, more secure connection that is less likely to overheat or cause a fire. Finally, you can hire a professional electrician to do a home rewire. This is a more expensive option, but it will completely eliminate the aluminum wiring in your home and replace it with safer copper wiring.

In Conclusion

While aluminum wiring is not as safe as copper, it can be made safe with proper installation and maintenance. If you have aluminum wiring in your home, be sure to have it inspected by a licensed electrician. They can give you the best recommendations on how to keep your family safe.

B Town Electric is a locally owned and operated electrical contractor servicing the Western Massachusetts area. We have decades of experience in the electrical industry and are knowledgeable in all types of wiring, including aluminum wiring and aluminum wiring repair. Contact us today to schedule a free estimate.