The Connector Problem
Aluminum Wiring was commonly used in homes and additions built between 1965 and 1973. Copper had become very expensive, and aluminum, an excellent conductor, was used as an economical alternative. In 1974, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission determined that connections in homes wired with aluminum wire manufactured before 1972 (”old technology” aluminum wire) were 55 times more likely to become a fire hazard than were copper wired homes.
The real problem with aluminum wiring is due to the fact that aluminum is NOT a noble metal, and it oxidizes very quickly in contrast to copper. If you have ever had aluminum storm windows, you will be familiar with the process. Aluminum oxide does not conduct, and it is at the connection points that aluminum wiring problems arise. Every switch and outlet is a potential problem point.
Aluminum wiring connection failures seldom trip circuit breakers, so these connection problems can lead to house fires. There are some warning signs. These incude warm outlet plates or switches, flickering lights, circuits that don’t work, the smell of burning plastic at outlets or switches. These warning signs were sometimes dismissed because circuit breakers did not trip. It’s important to know that aluminum wiring connection failures seldom trip circuit breakers.
The only CPSC recommeded repair procedures are to either rewire the home, or to repair each outlet, switch, and major appliance with a COPALUM connector, which is made by Tyco. These are the ONLY CPSC RECOMMENDED repairs for aluminum wiring, although other repairs have been promoted and used. If you have aluminum wiring, it’s best to find an electrician who is experienced in this type of repair, and to use a CPSC recommended repair.
References:
Aluminum Wiring in Homes
How to repair Aluminum Wiring in Homes
Tags: aluminum connections in older homes, Aluminum wiring in older homes, copalum connectors, hidden hazards in older homes, Home Buying Hazards