Aluminum Wiring and Insurance
Between the mid 1960’s and late 1970’s aluminum wiring was
used in many homes for the branch circuits. At the time aluminum wiring was a
cheaper option over copper wiring. It use ended due to the higher risk of fire.
Aluminum wiring is safe if it is properly installed and maintained. Aluminum
wiring has a higher rate of expansion and has a tendency to oxidize when
exposed to air. This can lead to poor connections at the termination points.
Poor connections can lead to arcing, overheating and the risk of a fire. Also
improper stripping of the insulation on the wire can cause the wire to break.
Homeowners wishing to update the look of their original
light switches and receptacles may unknowingly install devices which are not
compatible with aluminum wiring.
Because of the higher risk of fire, insurance companies are
wary of aluminum wiring. Insurance companies may require an inspection of the
wiring system by a certified electrical contractor. They may require upgrades
to the system which may include pigtailing. Pigtailing involves connecting a
copper wire between the end of the aluminum wire and the switch/receptacle.
Appropriate wire connectors approved for this purpose must be used and an
anti-oxidant paste to inhibit corrosion. This work must be undertaken by a
qualified electrician.
Some signs of problems include; flickering lights, warm receptacles/switches,
sparking at receptacles, inoperable receptacles and circuit breakers that trip
for no apparent reason. If any of these symptoms exist an inspection by a
qualified electrician should take place.
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