Pigtail & Replacement ServicesAluminum Wiring Repair Calgary
Aluminum wiring repair is a professional electrical service that addresses fire hazards in Calgary homes built between 1965 and 1979. At Ampt Over Electric, our Red Seal certified electricians have remediated hundreds of aluminum wiring systems throughout Calgary since 2009.
Install copper pigtails at every connection point to eliminate the risks of galvanic corrosion, wire creep, and overheating that cause 55 times more fire hazard conditions than copper wiring according to research commissioned by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Pigtailing aluminum wiring solutions that make aluminium house wiring safe without the massive expense of full replacement.
If your Calgary home was built during this era, your branch circuit wiring may be aluminum—and every outlet, switch, and light fixture connection is a potential fire ignition point. Our residential electrical services include comprehensive aluminum wiring assessments and permanent remediation solutions that satisfy insurance requirements and bring your home up to current Alberta electrical codes.
RatingI needed to make some modifications to my main panel, including adding a sub panel for emergencies. The quality of work was truly exceptional, couldn’t have asked for anything more. I highly recommend Ampt Over Electric for all your electrical needs, both big and small.
I hired this company to do several small jobs in my Condo and couldn't be happier with the results. Clear and precise communications for the quote. Ryan was abousletley delightful. Had everything fixed within 2 hours and the price is fair. I will be recommending this company to others and if I need something again will definitely call. Fast friendly and efficient service. Thank you so much to the whole team for making this such a positive experience. Shout out to Ryan because he definitely knows what he is doing!!!!!!
I totally recommend Ampt Over Electic. They were fast and efficient in setting up an estimate, doing the work and making sure I was satisfied.
We hired Ampt Over Electric to replace some old, dead light fixtures in our kitchen. Jeff arrived on time and was very quick, efficient and professional! I would recommend them to anyone looking to get some electrical work done. Thank you for making our kitchen bright again!!
Jorden at Ampt Over Electric got us a great quote (cheapest of all the quotes) to replace our outdated electrical panel. Jeff removed our old panel and installed the new one. He was patient enough to explain to me what he was doing while he worked. Clearly knowledgeable and customer focused. He even helped me clear out my utilities room so the work could be done. We are excited to have Jeff back to replace out outdoor lights with LED’s next!
Jeff did an incredible job installing our hot tub. From start to finish, he was professional, knowledgeable, and extremely detail-oriented. The wiring was done cleanly and safely, and everything was organized in a way that showed real care and craftsmanship. He clearly knows his stuff and takes pride in doing the job right. It’s not easy finding tradespeople who show up on time, communicate clearly, and leave the site spotless — but Jeff checked every box. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend him to anyone needing electrical work or hot tub installation. Solid work all around. Thanks again, Jeff!
Had Jeff from Ampt Over in to do a few jobs that were more than I could do myself. He was very professional, knowledgeable and an extreme pleasure to work with. Will definitely have him back for any BLUE jobs that beyond my abilities. Thank you again for arriving so quickly and finishing the things I would still be here doing.
Had Jeff from Amptover come today to change bathroom light fixtures. Turned out it needed three different junction boxes, which was not what he was expecting, but no problem. Superduper job done in no time flat. Fair price for excellent work! Many thanks to.Amptover And to Jeff and Jorden. Definitely gonna call them From now on for all my Electrician needs.!!
Extremely knowledgeable staff. Highly recommend. Jorden is very kind and professional.
Thank you for the amazing and quick service to move my ceiling fan
Why Calgary Homes Have Aluminum Wiring
During the late 1960s and 1970s, a global copper shortage drove home builders across North America to use aluminum for branch circuit wiring. An estimated 450,000 Canadian homes—and thousands throughout Calgary—were built with aluminum wiring during this period. At the time, aluminum seemed like a sensible alternative. It was abundant, affordable, and electrically conductive.
However, problems emerged within a decade of installation. The fundamental properties of aluminum create dangerous conditions at connection points—the exact locations where your electrical system powers outlets, switches, and fixtures throughout your home.
Calgary neighborhoods most affected include:
- Brentwood, Dalhousie, and Varsity (1965-1972)
- Lake Bonavista and Willow Park (1967-1974)
- Marlborough and Forest Lawn (1968-1975)
- Huntington Hills and Thorncliffe (1970-1976)
- Sundance, Midnapore, and Shawnessy (1972-1979)
If your Calgary home falls within these construction dates, contact our team for a professional assessment.
The Science Behind Aluminum Wiring Hazards
Understanding why aluminum wiring fails helps Calgary homeowners appreciate the importance of professional remediation. Two primary phenomena cause aluminum wiring connections to become fire hazards over time.
Galvanic Corrosion at Connection Points
When aluminum wiring connects directly to copper or brass terminals—standard in outlets, switches, and light fixtures—galvanic corrosion occurs. This electrochemical reaction happens because aluminum and copper have different electrical potentials on the galvanic scale. Over time, oxidation builds at the connection point, increasing electrical resistance and generating dangerous heat.
Calgary’s extreme temperature swings—from -30°C in winter to +30°C in summer—accelerate this degradation as connections expand and contract repeatedly throughout the year.
Wire Creep and Loosening Connections
Aluminum wire “creeps” under sustained mechanical pressure, slowly deforming and flowing away from terminal screws over years of use. This phenomenon, combined with aluminum’s 30% greater thermal expansion rate compared to copper, causes connections to loosen progressively.
Loose connections create high-resistance points where electricity must arc across gaps. These arcing events generate heat exceeding 500°C—more than enough to ignite surrounding wood framing, insulation, or dust accumulation.
The result: homes with original aluminum wiring are statistically 55 times more likely to have “fire hazard conditions” than homes wired with copper.
Calgary Aluminum Wiring Solutions
Ampt Over Electric offers two proven remediation approaches, both of which permanently eliminate aluminum wiring hazards and satisfy insurance requirements.
Option 1: Aluminum Wiring Pigtailing (Most Common)
Pigtailing involves installing short copper wire segments between your existing aluminum wires and all device terminals throughout your home. Using CSA-approved connectors specifically designed for aluminum-to-copper transitions, we create a permanent, code-compliant connection at every outlet, switch, and fixture.
How Pigtailing Works:
- We turn off power to each circuit and remove devices
- Aluminum wire ends are cleaned and prepared
- AlumiConn or COPALUM connectors join aluminum to copper pigtails
- Copper pigtails connect to device terminals
- Devices are reinstalled and tested
- Process repeats for every connection in your home
Why Calgary homeowners choose pigtailing:
- Cost-effective (typically $35-$55 per device)
- Minimal disruption (no wall damage)
- Same safety outcome as complete rewiring
- Accepted by all Alberta insurance providers
- Completed in 1-3 days for most homes
Pigtailing addresses the actual problem—dangerous connections—without the expense and disruption of running new wire throughout your walls. If you’re also considering upgrades like an electrical panel upgrade or EV charger installation, we can coordinate this work efficiently.
Option 2: Complete Copper Rewiring
For homeowners undertaking major renovations or those with severely deteriorated wiring, complete replacement with copper may be appropriate. This involves running new copper circuits throughout your home—typically requiring access through walls, ceilings, and floors.
Complete rewiring is recommended when:
- Major renovation exposes wall cavities anyway
- Insurance requires full replacement (rare)
- Wiring insulation has deteriorated significantly
- You're adding substantial electrical capacity
Full rewiring costs $10-$15 per square foot—$15,000-$25,000 for typical Calgary homes. For most homeowners, pigtailing achieves equivalent safety at roughly 10% of this cost.
Our Calgary Aluminum Wiring Process
When you choose Ampt Over Electric for aluminum wiring remediation, here’s exactly what to expect:
Step 1: Service Call & Safety Inspection
Our Red Seal certified electrician visits your Calgary home to assess every accessible connection point. We identify all devices requiring pigtailing, note any existing damage or overheating evidence, and document the scope of work.
Step 2: Detailed Quote & Scheduling
Usually within 24 hours, you receive a comprehensive written quote itemizing all work. No hidden fees. Most Calgary homes can be scheduled within 5 business days.
Step 3: Permit Application
All aluminum wiring work in Calgary requires an electrical permit from the City of Calgary. We handle the entire permit application process—the cost is included in your quote.
Step 4: Professional Remediation
Our electricians work systematically through your home, pigtailing every outlet, switch, and fixture. We restore power to completed rooms the same day, minimizing disruption to your household.
Step 5: City Inspection & Documentation
After completion, we coordinate the mandatory inspection with Alberta Safety Codes officials. Upon approval, you receive:
- Closed electrical permit
- Compliance letter for your insurance company
- Itemized completion report
- Warranty documentation
This documentation satisfies all Alberta insurance company requirements and provides verified proof of remediation for future home sales.
Calgary Aluminum Wiring Costs & Pricing
We believe in transparent pricing. Here’s what Calgary homeowners typically invest in aluminum wiring remediation:
Pricing includes:
- All labour and materials
- CSA-approved AlumiConn connectors
- City of Calgary electrical permit
- Safety inspection coordination
- Insurance compliance documentation
- Workmanship warranty
Most Calgary homes require 1-3 days for complete pigtailing. Exact pricing depends on total device count, accessibility, and panel configuration. Your free inspection includes a precise device count and firm quote.
Insurance Requirements for Aluminum Wiring in Calgary
Insurance companies in Alberta have become increasingly strict about aluminum wiring in recent years. Here’s what Calgary homeowners need to know:
Coverage challenges with original aluminum wiring:
- Higher premiums (15-30% above standard rates)
- Mandatory disclosure requirements
- Potential non-renewal notices
- Claim denials for electrical fires
- Required remediation within 30-90 days of notice
How professional pigtailing resolves insurance issues:
Once Ampt Over Electric completes your aluminum wiring remediation and provides documentation, your insurance company will:
- Accept the pigtailing as permanent remediation
- Restore standard premium rates
- Remove any coverage restrictions
- Provide full coverage for electrical incidents
We work regularly with all major Alberta insurers including TD Insurance, Intact, Aviva, Wawanesa, and Co-operators. Our compliance letters are specifically formatted to meet their documentation requirements.
Important: If you’ve received an insurance notice about aluminum wiring, contact us immediately. We prioritize urgent cases and can often schedule inspections within 48 hours.
Electricians Serving South Calgary & Southern Alberta
From our South Calgary locations, we reach most service calls within 30-45 minutes. Same-week scheduling available for all communities.
Calgary SW
- Eagle Ridge
- Pump Hill
- Canyon Meadows
- Cedarbrae
- Aspen Woods
- Lakeview
- Haysboro
- Discovery Ridge
- Springbank Hill
- West Springs
- Britannia
- Altadore
- Elbow Park
- Bel-Aire
- Upper Mount Royal
Calgary SE
- Auburn Bay
- Lake Bonavista
- McKenzie Lake
- Cranston
- Mahogany
- Dover
- McKenzie Towne
- Acadia
- Legacy
- Willow Park
- Douglasdale/Glen
- Chaparral
- Queensland
- Riverbend
- Quarry Park
Surrounding Communities
- Okotoks
- De Winton
- Cochrane
- Heritage Pointe
- Springbank
- Priddis
- Chestermere
- High River
- Diamond Valley
- Foothills
- Bearspaw
Frequently Asked Questions About Aluminum Wiring in House
How do I know if my Calgary home has aluminum wiring?
Look for “AL” or “ALUMINUM” markings stamped on cable jackets near your electrical panel or in exposed areas like basements and attics. Silver-gray colored wires (rather than copper’s orange-brown) indicate aluminum. Calgary homes built between 1965 and 1979 are most likely to have aluminum branch circuit wiring. Our Red Seal electricians can confirm with a free inspection.
Is aluminum wiring pigtailing a permanent solution?
Yes. Professional pigtailing using CSA-approved AlumiConn connectors or COPALUM crimps is recognized by the Canadian Electrical Code as a permanent aluminum wiring repair. When installed correctly by a licensed electrician, pigtailed connections eliminate fire hazards at termination points indefinitely. Insurance companies, home inspectors, and real estate professionals accept pigtailing as equivalent to complete rewiring.
How much does aluminum wiring repair cost in Calgary?
Aluminum wiring pigtailing in Calgary typically costs $35-$55 per device (outlet, switch, or fixture). Most Calgary homes with aluminum wiring have 40-80 devices, putting total pigtailing costs between $1,400-$4,400. Complete rewiring costs $10-$15 per square foot—$15,000-$25,000 for typical homes. Pigtailing achieves equivalent safety at roughly 10% of full rewiring cost.
Will my insurance company accept aluminum wiring after pigtailing?
Yes. All major Alberta home insurers accept professional aluminum wiring pigtailing with proper documentation. You’ll need a compliance letter from a licensed electrician, a closed electrical permit from the City of Calgary, and a passed safety inspection. Ampt Over Electric provides all required documentation to satisfy insurance requirements and often helps reduce your premiums.
How long does aluminum wiring pigtailing take?
Most Calgary homes require 1-3 days for complete aluminum wiring pigtailing. A typical 1,500 square foot bungalow with 50-60 devices takes approximately 1.5 days. Larger homes or those with difficult attic/basement access may take 2-3 days. We complete work room by room, restoring power to finished areas the same day.
Can I sell my Calgary home with aluminum wiring?
You can sell a home with aluminum wiring, but expect buyer concerns, lower offers, and potential financing complications. Most Calgary real estate agents recommend pigtailing before listing—the $2,000-$4,000 investment typically prevents $10,000+ in negotiated price reductions and eliminates deal-killing inspection issues. We provide documentation showing your aluminum wiring is safely remediated.
What's the difference between AlumiConn and COPALUM connectors?
AlumiConn connectors are CSA-approved set-screw devices that create a permanent copper-to-aluminum connection at each termination point. COPALUM is a crimp-style connector requiring specialized tools and certified installers. Both are code-approved permanent solutions recognized by the Alberta electrical code. AlumiConn is more commonly used in Calgary due to availability and cost-effectiveness while achieving equivalent safety.
Do I need a permit for aluminum wiring pigtailing in Calgary?
Yes. All aluminum wiring remediation in Calgary requires an electrical permit from the City of Calgary Safety Codes department. The permit ensures work is inspected and meets Alberta electrical codes under the Safety Codes Act. Ampt Over Electric handles all permit applications and coordinates inspections—the permit cost is included in our quotes.