Aluminum wiring. Once a common alternative to copper wiring in the 1960s and 1970s due to its lower cost, aluminum wiring can pose a significant fire risk. Read on to find out why.
Why Aluminum Wiring is a Fire Hazard
Unlike copper, aluminum expands and contracts at a greater rate with fluctuations in temperature. This can lead to several problems:
It is important to note that not all aluminum wiring is dangerous. For instance, multi-strand aluminum wires are widely used as the main lines running to the house. The stuff we're concerned about is single strand (meaning it looks like one wire, not a bunch twisted all together) on 15 and 20 amp circuits.
Unlike copper, aluminum expands and contracts at a greater rate with fluctuations in temperature. This can lead to several problems:
- Loose Connections: Over time, the expansion and contraction of aluminum wiring can loosen connections at outlets, switches, and breaker panels. Loose connections create resistance, which in turn generates heat – a significant fire hazard.
- Increased Fire Risk: Loose connections and the higher resistance of aluminum wiring compared to copper can cause overheating at these points. This overheating can melt surrounding wires and insulation, ignite nearby flammable materials, and ultimately lead to a house fire.
- Oxidation: Aluminum wiring is prone to oxidation, creating a white powdery crust that further increases resistance and worsens connection issues.
It is important to note that not all aluminum wiring is dangerous. For instance, multi-strand aluminum wires are widely used as the main lines running to the house. The stuff we're concerned about is single strand (meaning it looks like one wire, not a bunch twisted all together) on 15 and 20 amp circuits.
Image of a loose connection on aluminum wiring at a neutral bus bar. Notice the scorch marks on the single strand bare aluminum wire.
Image of a melted outlet due to overheating from aluminum wiring.
Identifying Aluminum Wiring in Your Home
There are a few ways to identify if your home has aluminum wiring:
There are a few ways to identify if your home has aluminum wiring:
- Look for exposed wiring: During renovations or repairs, if you see wiring with a silvery color, it's likely aluminum (though there is some tin coated copper that also looks silver). Copper wiring is typically reddish-brown.
- Hire a qualified electrician: The most reliable way to determine if you have aluminum wiring is to have a professional electrician conduct a full inspection of your home's electrical system.
Don't Be Left in the Dark: Consult a Qualified Electrician
If single strand aluminum wiring at the branch circuits was called out in your inspection, don't hesitate to contact a qualified electrician. They can assess the condition of the wiring, identify any potential problems, and advise you on the best course of action. In many cases, a process of connecting copper wires to the aluminum with special crimped fittings can be employed to eliminate the risk, and complete removal of the aluminum is not required.
If single strand aluminum wiring at the branch circuits was called out in your inspection, don't hesitate to contact a qualified electrician. They can assess the condition of the wiring, identify any potential problems, and advise you on the best course of action. In many cases, a process of connecting copper wires to the aluminum with special crimped fittings can be employed to eliminate the risk, and complete removal of the aluminum is not required.