Check if Aluminum Wire is Safe or Not

February 10, 2011-Aluminum wire was popular choice for home wiring during 1970's. But the number of house fire cases increased with the use of aluminum wire so most of the jurisdiction now do not recommend the aluminum wiring in homes. Instead of this copper wiring is preferred.

But at present if you house is having aluminum wiring then do not panic as if the aluminium wire is properly installed then it can be as safe as copper wire.

Aluminum Wire Problem
Aluminum wire face the main problem of “cold creep”. When heated aluminum wire expands and after cooling down it contracts. This warm and cool cycle decreases the tightness of aluminium wire each time. Also during this when aluminum wire come in contact with specific metal then it corrodes or the formation of aluminum oxide takes place. As a result of this resistance of connection moves up. This results in the aluminum wire heating leads to its melting. coFurther as a result of this accident of fire can happen.

Check the Aluminum Wiring for the Following Factors
If you are buying a home that has aluminum wire the get it thoroughly checked by licensed electrician or inspector for the following things:

All the aluminum wiring should be properly done. Connections should be really tight with at least ¾ way round the screw and that too in clockwise direction.

Fixtures that are connected directly to the aluminum wire should be rated. The devices are then stamped with "CO/ALR" and "AL/Cu". CO/ALR is safer option than the later. If you compare it with ordinary one then these are bit expensive.

If your home is having any "push-in" connection then it should be checked for the connection quality.

Check the aluminum wire for any heating sign like darkening of connections, baked fixture or melted insulation. If it is there then it needs immediate rectification.

Now if you want to connect copper wire with aluminum wire then pay special attention to this. There are connectors made for this connection so you must buy this. You must go through the regulation of your area before doing anything. If on inspection no problem is found for aluminum wire then it is safe to make the purchase or stay in that home.