How to Identify Aluminum Wiring
May 04, 2023
Aluminum wiring was used in the mid-1900s, where most homes were built with aluminum wiring because they were a lot cheaper compared to copper. Most of those houses never got remodeled. Hence, thousands of old homes are said to have aluminum wiring or another potentially dangerous type of wiring, knob and tube.
However, just because a house is old doesn’t mean it has aluminum wiring. That’s why an electrical inspection for aluminum wiring is important. Most homeowners looking to sell their property may not make it clear, so you’d have to investigate it yourself. Often, having aluminum wiring isn’t so bad, but when the wrong receptacle or conductors are installed, it could cause some serious damage. Aluminum wiring can be safe if properly installed and maintained, so here are some tips for how to identify aluminum wiring in your home.
What is Aluminum Wiring? Is it Safe?
Aluminum wiring is a type of electrical wiring that uses aluminum conductors instead of copper, which is the more common choice today.While aluminum is lighter and cheaper than copper for the same conductivity, this metal is also known for increased fire risks, maintenance challenges and increased insurance concerns.
While aluminum wiring itself isn't inherently unsafe, it does require extra care and attention compared to copper wiring. If you're considering buying a house with aluminum wiring, it's crucial to have a qualified electrician inspect the system to assess its condition and any potential risks.
What Does Aluminum Wiring Look Like?
So, what exactly does aluminum wiring look like? If you are unsure as you are inspecting your home, there are a few ways you can visually identify this type of wiring:
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The Exposed Wire: Exposed wiring is the most common way to know you have aluminum wiring. If your wires are exposed, check if they have a shiny steel-like exterior. If they do, you have aluminum wiring. Also, if they have a more reddish-brown color, then you have copper wiring.
Markings on the Wire: The plastic insulation sheathing the aluminum wires will often have markings that indicate the type of metal inside. Aluminum wiring manufactured before 1977 would be marked with the word ALUMINUM or ALUM or AL after at least every 12 inches. If it was manufactured after May 1977, the labeling would be ALUMINUM ACM, ALUM ACM, or AL ACM.
Other Warning Signs for Aluminum Wiring in Your Home
Aluminum wiring tends to overheat rather easily and is a far softer metal than copper. You may have aluminum wiring if you have flickering lights, tripped circuits, burned insulation, and heated outlets. To avoid all this, here are some ways you can know you have aluminum wiring.
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Heated Outlets: Overheating is a common sign of aluminum wiring. Having outlets that are a little warm is quite normal. However, when your outlets feel too hot to touch, you need to have your house inspected. Bear in mind that heated wires often burn, so watch out for strange odors as well. Your first line of action would be to turn off the breakers to stop the power flow and then call a professional for help.
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Flickering Lights and Bad Fixtures: While in some situations it’s normal for your lights to flicker, it only lasts for a second. If your lights flicker whenever you plug in any appliances or you have to change out your light bulbs frequently because they burn out so fast, it may be because of poor electrical connectors caused by the aluminum wiring.
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Buzzing, Arching, and Shocks: Buzzing sounds from an outlet or a switch are a sign of excessive heat. Does your outlet constantly spark when you plug an appliance? Chances are you have aluminum wiring.
Still Unsure If It’s Aluminum Wiring?
If you aren't sure how to identify aluminum wiring in your current or soon-to-be new home, it’s best to contact a qualified electrician at YES!Before you buy a house, you should call in a professional electrician to check the electrical condition of the home. Here, potential remodeling, rewiring, or full repairs can be discussed to ensure you and your home are in its safest condition.
For additional information on electrical services, call our team at 844-216-9300 and speak with a technician today.