Why Aluminum Wiring Can Be Dangerous and What You Can Do About It!

⚠️ Why can it be Dangerous?

1. Expansion & Contraction:

   
   

   

   
   

   Aluminum expands more than copper when it heats up. Over time, this movement can loosen connections, causing sparking or even fires.

2. Oxidation:

   Aluminum forms a corrosive oxide layer that increases resistance at connections. This can lead to overheating.

3. Soft & Brittle:

   It’s more prone to damage during installation or renovation, leading to breaks or weak spots in the wire.

4. Incompatible Connections:

   If aluminum is connected to copper or incompatible outlets/switches without proper connectors, it can create unsafe conditions (a.k.a. “a recipe for arcing”).

✅ Options to Fix It:

1. COPALUM Crimping (Best but Rare):A certified electrician installs special connectors using a crimping tool approved by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Very effective, but hard to find and expensive.

2. AL/CU Rated Connectors (Purple Wire Nuts):Approved twist-on connectors rated for aluminum-to-copper. Not as reliable long-term as crimping but better than doing nothing.

3. Pigtailing with Copper Wire:A copper wire is connected to the aluminum wire using an approved connector, then attached to outlets or switches. This reduces aluminum’s direct contact with devices.

4. Full Rewire (Most Expensive, Most Permanent):Removing all aluminum wiring and replacing it with copper. Pricey, but it completely removes the risk and can increase resale value.

🛠️ Quick Tip:

If your house was built between the mid-1960s and mid-1970s, it might have aluminum wiring. During a professional home inspection by Property Doctors, we will confirm the type of wiring you have and some options that can be done to limit the risk.

If you have questions about aluminum wiring don't hesitate to reach out to Property Doctors for more information!

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