Should I Replace Aluminum Wiring In My Home?

Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes between 1965 and the mid-1970s due to its cost-effectiveness. At that time, it was a cheaper alternative to copper. Unfortunately, aluminum wiring raises several concerns with regard to safety and fire hazards. If your property has aluminum wiring, it’s advisable to replace it with a safer material. Our electricians at Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach have created an outline explaining the dangers of aluminum wiring and why it is advisable to replace it.

Dangers of Aluminum Wiring

Overheating: Aluminum is a decent conductor of electricity, but it tends to overheat due to oxidation and thermal expansion. This can eventually lead to loose connections that may cause arcing and short circuits. Even when it is installed properly, aluminum wiring poses an increased fire hazard. This type of wiring is problematic not only in terms of safety and fire risks but also potential issues with home insurance. Most insurance companies may cancel or refuse to issue policies for homes with aluminum wiring.

Brittleness: Another problem with aluminum wiring is that it’s prone to breaking down when bent or subjected to repeated stress. It cannot hold a candle to copper when it comes to durability. Copper is more ductile, meaning it can be bent and manipulated without breaking as easily. Aluminum, on the other hand, is more brittle and susceptible to cracking or breaking, especially when connections are disturbed or worked on during renovations. You’re more likely to experience arcing, power outages, and even fires due to this increased fragility. To be on the safe side, it’s advisable to consider rewiring your property if you have aluminum wiring.

Impact on home value: Aluminum wiring is not just a safety hazard; it can also make selling your home nearly impossible. Nothing is going to scare potential homebuyers faster than the mention of aluminum wiring. Many buyers are aware of the risks associated with this type of wiring, and they may be unwilling to take on the liability and expense of dealing with it.

How to Tell If Your House Has Aluminum Wiring

There are several ways you can tell if you have aluminum wiring in your home. First, you’ll need to check when your home was built. Aluminum wiring was used in homes built between 1965 and the mid-1970s. You can find this information on your property’s deed or title. Alternatively, you can visit the county assessor’s office or check on their website to obtain the information. Another way to tell if you have aluminum wiring is to check the markings on the wire insulation. Aluminum wiring manufactured before 1977 will be marked with "ALUMINUM," "ALUM," or "AL" every few inches. If you’re unable to determine the type of wiring installed in your home, reach out to Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach for help.

Why Choose Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach for Your Electrical Wiring Needs

Here at Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach, we understand the risks associated with outdated electrical wiring. Our reliable electricians have the expertise and experience to upgrade your wiring to improve safety and ensure code compliance. We’ve been around for over 30 years and have successfully completed countless wiring jobs in the areas we serve. This is one of the reasons why we’ve continuously received positive customer reviews and maintain a strong reputation in the industry. When you hire Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach for all of your electrical needs, you can expect high-quality work, transparent pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee. Contact us today if you’re in need of professional electrical service.

If you suspect your home has aluminum wiring or need electrical repair, call the electricians in Portsmouth, VA at Mr. Electric of Virginia Beach for a safety inspection. Our team has the knowledge and experience to update your electrical system and address any potential issues.