Residential & Commercial Electrician

3 Reasons Why Your Residential Aluminum Electrical Wiring Needs to Be Replaced

Aluminum was a cheap substitute for copper wiring in the 1960s and 70s, but it’s now considered unsafe wiring. Learn more about the issue and consider these three reasons why your residential electrical wiring may need to be replaced.

1. Aluminum Residential Electrical Wiring can Pose a Fire Hazard

The main problem with aluminum wiring is that it can create a fire hazard. Over the years, aluminum wiring can deteriorate at connections, leading to a higher chance of overheating and starting a fire. Homes built before 1972 are more likely to have wiring problems due to aluminum. If you aren’t sure about the wiring in your home, contact a Calgary electrician to determine whether there is a problem.

2. Aluminum Oxide is a Poor Conductor

Metals tarnish over time, but this layer of oxide may be a good or poor conductor of electricity. Copper oxide is a good conductor, but aluminum oxide is a poor conductor. This can create problems with residential electrical wiring.

3. Your Home May Show Signs of Faulty Aluminum Wiring

Watch for signs of faulty aluminum wiring and contact a Calgary electrical company immediately if you notice any of them. Take action if the lights momentarily dim, brighten, or flicker; things suddenly stop working; you smell burning plastic or notice sparks, smoke, or flames; or you observe signs of overheating.

Eliminate the Problem of Aluminum Wiring with a Calgary Electrical Company

If your home has aluminum wiring, the best way to deal with the problem is to replace the wiring. Although it might not be an urgent problem, the problems associated with aluminum wiring continue to develop. Calling a Calgary electrician to fix the issue is usually the best choice.

A Calgary electrical company can help you discover whether your home is at risk due to aluminum wiring and can safely replace it if necessary.