Aluminum Wiring in Your Home

6/27/2017 (Permalink)

As residents of Tacoma, we recently received a letter from the city of Tacoma fire department warning us about the effects of aluminum wire failure. Residences and buildings built or modified between 1965 and 1972 may potentially contain aluminum electrical wiring. Small aluminum wires are associated with an increased risk of fire. If your home was built or modified during this time, be sure to check for aluminum wiring in your home or business. The city of Tacoma has provided information on how to determine the presence of aluminum, signs of aluminum wiring failure, and how you can fix the problem.

Determining the Presence of Aluminum Wiring

The best way to determine whether or not your structure contains aluminum wiring is to have an electrical professional conduct an inspection. As an alternative if you have sheathed wire visible in unfinished basements, attics, or garages, you can perform a visual check of the plastic sheathing on the cables. The word aluminum or 'AL' may be written on one side of the wiring. After turning off power at your electrical box, you can also look at the exposed wires in outlets or switch boxes. The color of the aluminum wire is silver rather than copper.

Signs of Aluminum Wiring Failure

• Hot electrical outlet faceplates
• Unidentified smell of burning plastic
• Flickering lights
• Failed electrical circuits

How You Can Fix the Problem

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has researched the fire problem associated with aluminum wiring and recommends three permanent repairs:

• Rewire the entire home
• Professionally install COPALUM crimp connectors
• Professionally install AlumiConn connectors

For more information or questions about aluminum wiring, please contact the Fire Prevention Division by calling 253-591-5740.