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If you live in Toronto and your home was built between the 1960s and late 1970s, there’s a good chance it may contain aluminum electrical wiring. While aluminum was once a popular choice due to its affordability and availability, it has since become a serious safety concern for homeowners across Ontario. At Langstaff & Sloan Inc., we specialize in identifying, repairing, and replacing aluminum wiring in houses, ensuring your home is both safe and code-compliant.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about aluminum house wiring—how to identify it, why it can be dangerous, and what your options are if you live in a home with aluminum wiring in Ontario.
What is Aluminum Wiring?
Aluminum wiring refers to the use of aluminum conductors in place of copper for branch electrical circuits in homes. During the 1960s and 70s, copper prices surged, making aluminum a cost-effective alternative. Unfortunately, the long-term effects of aluminum electrical wiring were not well understood at the time.
Over time, electricians and homeowners began noticing that aluminium wiring was prone to issues such as:
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Overheating at connection points
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Corrosion
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Loose connections
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Increased risk of electrical fires
These problems stem from aluminum's physical properties. Unlike copper, aluminum expands and contracts significantly with heat, causing wires to loosen at connections. It also oxidizes, which increases resistance and generates more heat—sometimes enough to ignite nearby materials.
How to Identify Aluminum Wiring in Houses
If you suspect your Toronto home may have aluminum house wiring, you can perform a quick check by looking at the visible wiring near your electrical panel or inside electrical outlet boxes. Look for markings on the outer jacket of the wire that say:
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ALUMINUM
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ALUM
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AL
If you're unsure or uncomfortable checking, a licensed electrician from Langstaff & Sloan Inc. can perform a thorough inspection and confirm whether your home has aluminum electrical wiring.
Is Aluminum Wiring Legal in Ontario?
Yes, aluminum wiring in Ontario is legal, but with conditions. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code allows the use of aluminum conductors, provided that they are properly installed using approved connectors and devices. However, older homes with outdated or degraded aluminum connections are at higher risk and may not meet current safety standards.
That’s why insurance companies often raise red flags when they discover aluminum wiring in houses. In some cases, they may require a safety inspection, repair, or full replacement before issuing or renewing a policy.
What Are Your Options if You Have Aluminum Wiring?
If your home has aluminum house wiring, you don’t need to panic—but you do need to act. Here are your main options:
1. Rewiring (Full Replacement)
This is the most comprehensive—and expensive—solution. Replacing all aluminum electrical wiring with copper eliminates the issue altogether and brings your home up to modern safety standards. It’s ideal for homeowners doing major renovations or planning to stay in the home long-term.
2. Aluminum Wiring Repair (Pigtailing)
A more cost-effective option involves installing copper pigtails at each connection point using approved connectors (such as AlumiConn or Copalum). This method is accepted by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) in Ontario and significantly reduces the risks associated with aluminium wiring.
At Langstaff & Sloan Inc., we offer professional aluminum wiring repair services using ESA-approved materials and methods, ensuring your home's electrical system is safe and insurable.
Why Choose Langstaff & Sloan Inc. in Toronto?
When it comes to addressing aluminum wiring in Ontario, choosing the right electrician is critical. Here’s why Toronto homeowners trust Langstaff & Sloan Inc.:
✅ Licensed & Insured Electricians
✅ ESA Authorized Contractor
✅ Specialized in Aluminum Wiring Repair & Replacement
✅ Trusted by Insurance Providers
✅ Detailed Home Electrical Inspections
We understand the challenges homeowners face with aluminum house wiring, and we’re here to offer practical, affordable solutions that meet your needs and budget.
Don’t Risk It — Get a Professional Aluminum Wiring Inspection Today
If you suspect your home may have aluminum wiring in Toronto, don’t delay. Faulty or aging wiring can lead to serious safety issues and insurance headaches.
Contact Langstaff & Sloan Inc. today for a comprehensive home inspection or to learn more about aluminum electrical wiring solutions. Whether you need rewiring, pigtailing, or just peace of mind, we’re here to help.
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