Why Should I Be Concerned About Aluminum Wiring?

Aluminum wiring in Ontario was used in the 1960s and 1970s, mostly because it was a more affordable option than copper wire but was still a good conductor. There are many houses today that still have aluminum wiring or a combination of copper and aluminum.

However, even though aluminum was an approved wiring option at one point, by the early 1980’s it was no longer deemed safe due to its recognized increase of fire risks. If you find that your current Toronto home or a home in the GTA that you’d like to purchase does have aluminum wiring, making sure you understand your options is important.

What You Need to Know About Aluminum Wiring

If aluminum was once deemed a suitable wiring material, why all the fuss about fixing aluminum wiring? As mentioned, as more information came out about this material choice over time, we now know that it delivers more cons than pros.

Here are some of the issues that cause concern about aluminum wiring:It expands and contracts more than copper wire making it less stable.

The properties of aluminum make it more prone to loose connections.

Loose connections can lead to arcing, melting, and an increased risk of electrical fires.

Thankfully, you do have some options when it comes to fixing aluminum wiring in your GTA home. You can repair the wiring, commonly known as ‘pigtailing’, which involves adding copper wire to the ends of the aluminum. You can also fully replace aluminum wiring in Ontario, which is a more expensive option but may provide you with the peace of mind that you’re looking for.

To start the process of upgrading your wiring, it’s best to reach out to a qualified electrician and have them provide a quote. Remember, a licensed electrician should be the only one to complete electrical work in your home.

Langstaff & Sloan Can Fix Your Aluminum Wiring

Langstaff & Sloan would be happy to help you learn more about your options when it comes to outdated wiring. As trusted professionals and licensed Toronto electricians, we can provide you with a comprehensive quote that includes transparent pricing and clear details about the work we can complete. We’ll walk you through each option and help you decide the best course of action based on your budget and your needs. To learn more about working with Langstaff & Sloan, please reach out and contact us today.

Source: https://langstaffandsloan.com/why-should-i-be-concerned-about-aluminum-wiring/