Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes built in the 1960s and 1970s as a cheaper alternative to copper wiring. While aluminum wiring is still permitted by code, homes built before 1973 using single-strand aluminum wiring are considered "old technology" and may be prone to overheating and fire if connections loosen over time. Newer homes built since 1973 using "new technology" wiring with proper labeling of breakers and devices are much less likely to have issues. Homeowners with old aluminum wiring should monitor for signs of problems and consider upgrading switches and outlets to newer aluminum-compatible components.

1. P E R S P E C T I V E S
Our View of Aluminum Wiring
Based on our research and inspection experience, the use of aluminum wire should not be a reason
to avoid buying a house. There are, however, some cautions about aluminum wire that should be
discussed with potential buyers. Not only do our inspectors fully examine the electrical system, we
present this information in a manner that helps clients keep the issue in perspective.
Brief History
Builders began using aluminum wire around 1965, when the price of copper wire skyrocketed. A considerable number
of homes have aluminum wiring -- in fact, in most areas of the United States the use of aluminum wire is still code
permitted.
Many studies have shown that electrical problems are more likely to occur with aluminum wire than with copper.
However, most concerns are restricted to single strand aluminum wire used in branch circuits not the stranded heavier
gauge wire used for service entrance and large appliances. Single stranded wire tends to work loose at the screw
terminals causing overheating, malfunctions and occasional fire. Correcting these problems led to changes in installation
methods around 1973.
New Technology
Homes constructed with aluminum wire since 1973, have "new technology" wiring that comply with electrical codes
requiring UL listed circuit breakers, receptacles, switches, and
wire nuts ( i.e., aluminum compatibility labeling: CO-ALR or
CO-AL). Installed properly, these devices keep the connections
tight and should greatly reduce any potential problems. If an
outlet or switch ever needs to be replaced, replacement
devices should be labeled "CO-ALR".
Old Technology
Unless upgraded, homes built between 1965 and 1973, have
"old technology" aluminum wiring. There are few
documented cases of house fires caused by aluminum wiring -
with the majority of problems involving mobile homes and
recreation vehicles. "Old technology" aluminum wiring will
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usually perform satisfactory if properly installed. There are no code requirements to make improvements and typically
insurance companies will not refuse to cover a home with aluminum wiring. However, homeowners should watch for
warning signs and consider some form of upgrade from an electrical specialist.
Homeowner suggestions include:
With every inspection we provide 12 months of our Extended AdviceSM program so your clients always have a direct
source for accurate information about their homes. For aluminum wire, we recommend the following:
-- Be aware of warning signs: excessive light dimming, arcing at switches, warm cover-plates at switches or
outlets, strange odors, burnt wires or corrosion on electrical connections, or faulty outlets or circuits.
-- Periodically check the connections at outlets and switches to make sure wires are tight and there are no hot
spots. Hot or warm outlets and switches indicate a need for repair.
-- If you wish to be proactive or have a concern, upgrade old technology by replacing switches and outlets with
the labeled CO-ALR devices.
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