Aluminum wiring was commonly installed in homes between the years of 1965 through 1973 because it was cheap and easy to install; however, after several years of installing this type of wiring, electricians discovered that it was problematic.
Unfortunately, aluminum wiring can present a serious risk to you and your home. Continue reading to learn more about why aluminum wiring is a problem and what you can do about it.
Increases the Risk of a Fire
Research conducted by the Franklin Research Institute for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) demonstrates that homes with aluminum wiring are approximately 55 times more likely to experience “Fire Hazard Conditions” than are homes wired with copper. Many homes built between 1965 and 1972 that were equipped with aluminum wiring experienced house fires due to malfunctions in the wire.
These malfunctions often take place at the connections between the wires themselves and switches, receptacles, outlets, appliances, and junction boxes. Thanks to the inherent qualities of this type of metal, aluminum wiring expands when it is hot and contracts when it is cool. This creates loose connections and wire failures, which can very quickly result in sparks, short circuits, shocks, electrical arcs, and electrical fires.
Below are qualities of aluminum wiring that make it more likely to start a fire than other types of wiring:
- Oxidation
- Thermal expansion and contraction
- Malleability
- Excessive vibration
- Corrosion
No Longer Up to Code
While aluminum wiring is not illegal, it is no longer up to code. Homes with aluminum wiring should be monitored by qualified professionals to ensure the safety of the occupants of the home. In addition, because aluminum wiring is not up to code, it can be quite difficult to insure a home with it.
Got Aluminum Wiring?
If you’ve got aluminum wiring in your home, reach out to Lightning Bug Electric for a solution. Our team has extensive experience working with this type of wiring and knows exactly how to restore comfort and safety to your home. Equipped with state-of-the-art tools and technology, you can always count on us to get the job done right the first time.
Our electrical services include:
- Home safety
- Electrical remodeling
- Electrical installation
- Service panel upgrades
- Wiring and rewiring
- Outlets and switches
- Surge protection
- Lighting upgrades
- Landscape lighting
- Home theaters
- Pool and spa lighting
- Commercial electrical
When you want the job done right the first time around, turn to Lightning Bug Electric.
Call (404) 471-3847 or message us online to schedule an electrical inspection today. We look forward to serving you!