People
worry about aluminum branch circuit wiring (i.e. the wires from the circuit breakers going to
plugs, switches and lights) and with good reason. Wherever possible it should
be replaced with copper. However, it's sometimes not feasible to replace your
aluminum wiring.
The use
of aluminum branch circuit wiring was widespread from the mid 1960's until the
early to mid 1970's. Problems began to occur because aluminum is prone to
breakage due to improper stripping of the wires, over-tightening of splices,
cold forming etc. Most problems show up in the electrical splice. Aluminum will also oxidize when exposed to the air which
causes poor conductivity and heat build-up. Because of this, there is a risk of
an electrical fire with aluminum wiring and it was subsequently banned for use
in branch circuit wiring.
Some
symptoms of immediate problems with aluminum wiring are lights flickering or
plugs that will not work even with all the circuits turned on.All insurance
providers will require that a home with aluminum wiring either have the aluminum wiring replaced with copper or be inspected and
certified by a licensed electrician. This involves physically inspecting all of
the connections, installing approved connectors, using approved aluminum
devices or copper pigtail wiring and using an anti-oxidant compound. If your wiring has
been inspected, repaired and certified then the aluminum wiring system will outlast most
other systems in your home (plumbing, roof, perimeter drains, windows, etc.).
Aluminum
is still in widespread use today for distribution wiring. It is an excellent
conductor, lightweight, strong and much more cost effective than copper. The BC
Hydro supply lines that come to your home are aluminum, as is almost the entire
power grid. Aluminum is commonly used as main distribution wiring within multi-family buildings (townhouses, condos) to bring power from the main service to the individual units. It is
also used within houses to bring power from the main electrical panel to
sub-panels, stoves or other large loads.
Aluminum is a good choice for main distribution wiring, NOT for branch circuit wiring.
If you would like more information or would like to schedule a free estimate visit our website at http://www.pacificstarelectric.ca
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