The Dangers of Aluminum Wiring & Why You Should Replace It
There’s something undeniably charming about homes built in the 1960s and 70s. From their unique architectural styles to the nostalgia of retro designs, these houses often bring a warmth and character that modern homes sometimes lack. But while these homes may have been built with quality craftsmanship, they can also come with hidden dangers — especially when it comes to electrical wiring. One of the biggest risks? Aluminum wiring.
During the mid-20th century, aluminum wiring was widely used as a cheaper alternative to copper. However, it didn’t take long to discover that aluminum wiring posed serious safety hazards. The risks associated with aluminum wiring are so severe that electricians today strongly encourage homeowners to replace it as soon as possible.
If your home was built in this era, you may be wondering just how dangerous aluminum wiring really is and whether you should consider rewiring your home. Let’s break it down.
Is Aluminum Wiring Bad?
In short — yes, aluminum wiring is bad. While aluminum seemed like a good alternative to copper at the time, it turned out to be a poor conductor for residential electrical systems. Unlike copper, aluminum is softer, more prone to expansion and contraction, and more likely to overheat. Over time, these factors contribute to several hazards:
Increased Fire Risk
One of the most significant dangers of aluminum wiring is its tendency to overheat. When aluminum expands and contracts, it can loosen connections, leading to sparking. In fact, studies have shown that homes with aluminum wiring are much more likely to experience electrical fires than those with copper wiring.
Corrosion & Oxidation Issues
Aluminum is more susceptible to corrosion than copper. So, when bare sections of the wiring are exposed to oxygen, it forms aluminum oxide, which increases resistance in the wires. Higher electrical resistance leads to excessive heat, further raising the risk of fire hazards.
Loosening Connections
Due to its risk of expansion and contraction, aluminum wiring is more likely to loosen over time, leading to “hot spots” at outlets, light switches, and circuit breakers. These loose electrical connections are one of the primary reasons aluminum wiring is considered a fire hazard and often force homeowners to seek emergency electrical repairs.
When Was Aluminum Wiring Banned?
While certainly considered dangerous, aluminum wiring wasn’t outright banned. Instead, it was phased out of residential construction in the late 1970s. How did this all come about? Let’s take a look at the history of aluminum wiring:
In the early 1960s, the price of copper skyrocketed, leading builders to seek a more cost-effective alternative. Aluminum became a popular choice because it was lightweight and much cheaper than copper.
However, by the mid-1970s, reports of house fires caused by solid conductor aluminum wiring were becoming increasingly common. After extensive research and testing, it was determined that aluminum wiring wasn’t suitable for standard residential use. By 1978, building codes had largely shifted away from aluminum wiring, and copper wiring became the preferred and much safer alternative.
While aluminum wiring is no longer used in new homes, it still exists in many older houses. If your home was built between 1965 and 1978, there’s a chance you have aluminum wiring behind your walls — and that’s a serious safety concern.
How to Know if Your Home Has Aluminum Wiring
If your home was built in the 60s or 70s, it’s worth investigating whether it has aluminum wiring. While you won’t necessarily see it at first glance, there are several ways to check:
Look at (BUT DON’T TOUCH) Exposed Wiring: If you have access to exposed wiring in your basement, attic, or garage, check the plastic sheathing on the wires. Aluminum wires often have “AL” or “Aluminum” stamped on them. (It’s important not to touch the wires; otherwise, you risk an electrical shock. If you can’t see any labels on the wires, leave them be and call a certified electrician for an inspection.) Alternatively, you can check your electrical panel for the same markings.
Pay Attention to Electrical Issues: If you’ve noticed flickering lights, frequently tripped breakers, or warm outlets and switches, these could be signs of loose or overheating aluminum connections.
Hire a Professional Electrician: The safest and most accurate way to determine if your home has aluminum wiring is to hire a licensed electrician in Minneapolis to inspect your system.
Aluminum Wiring vs. Copper Wiring
Since the answer to the question, “Is aluminum wiring safe?” is a very firm no, what are you supposed to do if your house has this type of wiring? It’s time to invest in a replacement.
When homeowners choose to replace aluminum wiring, they typically switch to copper wiring. But why is copper the better choice?
Durability & Longevity: Copper is stronger and more resistant to wear and tear, making it far less likely to degrade over time.
Less Risk of Fire Hazards: Because copper doesn’t expand and contract like aluminum, it maintains secure connections and significantly reduces the risk of electrical fires.
Lower Maintenance: Copper wiring is far more resistant to corrosion, oxidation, and other forms of degradation, meaning fewer repairs and long-term reliability.
While rewiring may seem like a big undertaking, it is essential for protecting your home and family from the dangers of aluminum wiring.
Upgrade Your Home’s Electrical System Today
If you suspect your home still has aluminum wiring, it’s time to take action. Even if your aluminum wiring appears to be working fine now, it could be a ticking time bomb behind your walls.
The good news? You don’t have to navigate this process alone. At Go Electric, LLC, we specialize in rewiring services in Minneapolis and can help you upgrade your home’s electrical system safely and efficiently. So, contact us today to schedule an inspection and take the first step toward a safer home.
