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.

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