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Trusted Aluminum Wiring Electricians In Calgary
Aluminum wiring is a fire hazard wherever the wire is spliced or makes a connection with an outlet, switch, circuit breaker, or other component of your electrical system. Additionally, aluminum wire contracts and expands with temperature changes, which can result in overheating, sparking, and fires.
Homes built between the 1960’s and early 1970’s likely contain aluminum wiring because it was a cheaper alternative to copper. Statistically, homes containing aluminum wire are 55 times more likely to have a fire.
Thousands of Calgary homes were wired during this time including many communities such as Bayview, Braeside, Canyon Meadows, Cedar Brae, Lake Bonavista, Palliser, Parkland, Pump Hill, Queensland, and Willow Park.
Some communities in Calgary’s Surrounding area where also constructed during this time, such as in Okotoks, High River, Canmore, Cochrane, Airdrie, Black Diamond, and more.
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Why is Aluminum Wiring such a Hazard
Copper and Aluminum wiring expand and contract differently. Thus, overheating of aluminum conductors may occur at many locations in your home’s electrical system including at switches, receptacles, splices, and pigtails.
An AMPT Over Electric expert technician can replace your home’s aluminum wiring with copper wiring that well-exceeds minimum code, making your home safe for you and your family. This has the potential to cause a fire!
Creep
When aluminium conductors are subjected to stress, the aluminum will ‘creep’ away from the area of stress. The rate of creep will increase as the temperature increases and will continue to do so until the stress equals the strength of the aluminum.
When an aluminum conductor is wrapped around a screw terminal of a receptacle or switch, the aluminum creeps away from the screw causing a high resistance termination. A high resistance termination equals heat, which equals an increased risk for fire!
Galvanic Corrosion
This can occur when dissimilar metals, like aluminum and copper, are joined together and an electrical current is passed through them. The copper and aluminum have a large difference in their galvanic potential which causes corrosion, which can cause a fire.
If the increased risk of having aluminium wire in your home isn’t reason enough to replace it, then there is also the fact that insuring a home with aluminium wiring is tough. Insurance companies are aware of the increase risk of this wiring and are increasing premiums for these homes and requesting a detailed safety inspected prior to approving insurance.
Your home should be safe, comfortable, and worry-free. You can ensure you and your family’s safety in your home by replacing aluminum wiring with our experts at AMPT Over Electric!
If you are looking for more information about Aluminum Wiring Replacement packages, please call AMPT Over Electric at 403.862.1782 or fill out an online quote request today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Electricians Still Use Aluminum Wiring?
Yes, electricians still use aluminum wiring in certain situations. Aluminum wiring was commonly used in residential and commercial buildings during the 1960s and 1970s. While it is less common today, it is still present in some older properties. Aluminum wiring is known for being less expensive than copper wiring. Electricians may use special connectors and techniques when working with aluminum wiring to mitigate these risks. Additionally, building codes and regulations often require additional safety measures for aluminum wiring installations. In general, copper wiring is preferred due to its superior conductivity and reliability, but electricians may still encounter aluminum wiring in certain situations and handle it accordingly.
How To Repair Aluminum Wiring Connections?
Repairing aluminum wiring connections requires specific steps to ensure safety and prevent fire hazards. Here's a simple guide:
- Turn off the power: Before starting any repairs, turn off the electricity to the affected circuit at the breaker box.
- Identify issues: Inspect the connections for signs of overheating, such as discoloration, burning smell, or loose connections.
- Copper pigtails: Replace the aluminum wire with copper wire using approved connectors called "pigtails." Connect the copper pigtail to the aluminum wire using a specialized antioxidant compound.
- Junction boxes:Install approved junction boxes to house the connections. Make sure the box is properly grounded.
- Seek professional help: For extensive repairs or if you're uncertain, it's best to hire a licensed electrician experienced in working with aluminum wiring.
Remember, following electrical safety guidelines and consulting local electrical codes when working with aluminum wiring is crucial.
How To Repair Aluminum Wiring?
Repairing aluminum wiring requires specific techniques to ensure safety and prevent electrical hazards. Here are the steps to repair aluminum wiring:
- Identify the issue:Determine the faulty connection or damaged wire that needs repair.
- Turn off the power:Shut off the electrical supply to the affected circuit from the main panel.
- Consult a professional: Due to the complexity of aluminum wiring repairs, hiring a licensed electrician with experience in working with aluminum wiring is advisable.
- Use approved connectors: Replace outdated or faulty connections with approved aluminum-to-copper, COPALUM, or AlumiConn connectors.
- Properly clean the wire ends: Remove any oxidation or corrosion from the aluminum ends using a wire brush or approved electrical cleaner.
- Reconnect and secure: Connect the aluminum wire to the approved connector following manufacturer instructions, ensuring a secure and tight connection.
- Test and verify: Once the repairs are complete, turn the power back on and test the circuit to ensure proper functioning.
Professional assistance is recommended to ensure the repair is done safely and effectively.
Does Aluminum Wiring Have To Be Replaced?
Aluminum wiring doesn't necessarily have to be replaced in all cases, but it may require careful attention and evaluation. Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes built between the 1960s and 1970s. Over time, it has been found to have certain risks, such as increased fire hazards due to potential overheating and corrosion. To ensure safety, it is recommended to have a qualified electrician inspect the wiring and assess its condition.
To mitigate the risks, they may recommend various solutions, such as installing specialized connectors or copper pigtails. In some cases, a complete replacement with copper wiring may be advised. It is crucial to consult a licensed and insured Calgary electrician who can provide expert guidance and address any concerns regarding the specific aluminum wiring in your home. At Ampt Over Electric, we offer prompt assistance without lowering our standards.