Aluminum Wiring Vs. Copper

February 4, 2025

Safeguard Your Property: The Risks and Solutions For Aluminum Wiring

As a multi-tenant owner or manager, you should be aware that if your property was built between 1965 and 1987, the property likely has aluminum wiring. Aluminum wiring poses significant safety risks including fires, prompting insurance providers to mandate aluminum wiring replacements during policy renewals. Replacing or upgrading aluminum wiring also protects your property value.

Since 1987, the National Electric Code has not allowed aluminum wiring inside single and multi-tenant buildings because of the safety and fire risks.

Let's Talk About Upgrading Your Aluminum Wiring

Insurance Providers Mandate Aluminum Wiring Repairs Due To The Following:

Overheating Issues: Gaps between wiring and connectors in aluminum installations can lead to overheating, causing appliance power issues and even house fires.
Fragility and Breakage: Aluminum wiring is less flexible and more fragile than copper, making it prone to breakage, fraying, and damage.
Oxidation Concerns: Improper connection of aluminum wiring with copper can lead to oxidation, potentially becoming flammable over time.

Replacement and Mitigation Methods

Full replacement of aluminum wiring can be very costly. If a rewire is not an option, we provide the following to upgrade wiring and mitigate future issues:

Custom Solutions: Install UL- and NEC-approved materials to upgrade aluminum wiring and ensure compliance and long-term safety

Copper Pigtails and AlumiConn: Replacement consists of installing the copper pigtails (solid copper conductors per St. Louis County) and AlumiConn connectors at every device (light switch, receptacle, light fixture, etc.) and connecting the AlumniConn properly to the aluminum wiring.

What is AlumiConn?

AlumiConn & “Purple” Wire Nuts are the only two connectors UL (Underwriters Laboratories) approved and National Electric Code approved to connect with aluminum wiring.

AlumiConn is a lug-style connector designed to eliminate intermixing of aluminum and copper conductors. It coats aluminum wires with a silicone sealant layer, providing resistance from oxidation. The set screws break up surface oxides, ensuring a secure mechanical connection.

Aluminum to Copper Conversion Cost & Timeline:

Device Replacement: Costs typically range from $55 to $120 per point.
Timeline: Varies based on the number of devices and number of units in the apartment complex. A small apartment complex may take 1-2 days, while larger apartment complexes may take 50+ days.

Why Compass Electrical Solutions

Expertise: With our seasoned team, we navigate complex electrical projects efficiently and minimize tenant disruption.
Compliance: We prioritize safety and adhere to industry standards for seamless insurance compliance.
Custom Solutions: Tailored electrical solutions to meet your unique property needs.

Protect your property's value and upgrade aluminum electrical wiring with Compass Electrical Solutions, the key to a safer, more efficient, and compliant multi-tenant environment.

Contact us for a personalized site visit and take the first step towards a secure electrical future.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

City of St. Charles: Electrical Demolition for City Centre Complex

February 20, 2026

Project Overview Compass Electrical Solutions is proud to play a foundational role in the transformation of downtown St. Charles with the demolition and electrical preparation of the former City Hall building , clearing the way for the future City Centre Complex (C3) development. Partnering with Kolb Grading, LLC , our team handled all aspects of the electrical demolition , making existing systems safe and removing critical infrastructure, including medium voltage feeders , to prepare the site for construction. Project Scope & Highlights Full Electrical Demolition – Safely removed and made-safe all existing electrical systems within the former City Hall. Medium Voltage Demolition – Disconnected and removed aging medium voltage feeders , panels, and outdated switchgear. New Infrastructure Installation – Furnished and installed new medium voltage feeders , panels , and switchgear to support ongoing site operations. Crossover Execution – Completed electrical crossover to maintain continuity during demolition and transition phases.

Caravus: Low Voltage & AV Integration for New Office Space

February 10, 2026

Project Overview Compass Electrical Solutions recently partnered with Caravus to deliver a full-scale low voltage and audio/visual installation in their new office space. This project focused on building a connected, modern workplace with seamless technology integration to support communication, collaboration, and day-to-day operations. Project Scope & Highlights Data Cabling & Termination – Ran and terminated CAT-6 data lines to all cubicles for fast, reliable network access. Audio System Installation – Installed speakers throughout the entire office with a single, centralized audio control solution. Conference Room Tech – Outfitted multiple meeting spaces with video conferencing-capable TVs and microphones . Smart TVs – Installed smart displays in the lobby and private offices for branding, communication, and convenience.

Maryville University: Powering the Future of E-Sports

January 20, 2026

Project Overview Compass Electrical Solutions partnered with Maryville University to deliver key electrical upgrades to their growing E-Sports Academy . As competitive gaming continues to rise in popularity, the university needed a facility equipped to handle the power and performance demands of a high-tech gaming environment. Project Scope & Highlights Facility Expansion Support – Installed additional power infrastructure to support new equipment and future growth. Custom Lighting Installation – Designed and installed lighting systems tailored to the needs of players and spectators. Technology-Ready Electrical Work – Delivered clean, reliable power to ensure uninterrupted gaming and streaming performance.