Aluminum Wiring Vs. Copper

February 4, 2025

Safeguard Your Property: The Risks and Solutions of 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.

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

Insurance Providers Mandate Aluminum Wiring Repairs Because:

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 and is not always an option. If replacement is not an option, the following methods will help make safe and mitigate future issues:

Safe Aluminum Connections: Install all aluminum rated devices and connect to aluminum wiring properly.
Copper Pigtails and AlumiConn:
Install copper pigtails and copper rated devices including installing all pigtails at light fixtures and appliances.
When installing copper pigtails, special connectors called AlumiConn are to be used, which are rated for this application.
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 an 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 range from $55 to $120 per device and light fixture for copper pig tailing and device replacement.
Timeline: Varies based on the number of devices. A small apartment may take 1-2 days, while larger apartments or single-family homes may take 3-5 days.

Why Compass Electrical Solutions

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

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

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