PEI electrical inspectors say aluminum is okay
January 14, 2009-
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Electrical inspectors in P.E.I. are advising Islanders that aluminum wiring can be safe but must be properly maintained.
Inspectors have received a number of enquiries recently about the safety of aluminum wiring—many calls coming from homeowners considering alternate heat sources, such as portable heaters, electric fireplaces and electric baseboard heating.
Inspectors have received a number of enquiries recently about the safety of aluminum wiring—many calls coming from homeowners considering alternate heat sources, such as portable heaters, electric fireplaces and electric baseboard heating.
Although
not commonly used anymore in residential dwellings, aluminum wiring was
often installed in homes from the mid 1960s until the late 1970s.
Officials in the Electrical Inspection Section of the Department of
Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour say aluminum wiring is both
safe and permitted under the Canadian Electrical Code. However,
inspectors stress the importance of maintaining proper connections and
terminations in older wiring installations.
There have been some reported problems with aluminum wiring related to overheating and failure of the terminations. This can happen as the wiring ages because aluminum has a tendency to oxidize and may not be compatible with devices designed for use with copper wire. As well, inspectors caution that, throughout the years, rodents may have used insulation around the wiring for nests, leaving the wires dangerously exposed.
Some homes may contain both aluminum and copper. Inspectors say that anyone with concerns about the wiring in their home should contact a qualified electrical contractor who is knowledgeable in working with and repairing aluminum wiring.
Questions about aluminum wiring in residential dwellings can be directed to a senior electrical inspector at (902) 368-5280.
There have been some reported problems with aluminum wiring related to overheating and failure of the terminations. This can happen as the wiring ages because aluminum has a tendency to oxidize and may not be compatible with devices designed for use with copper wire. As well, inspectors caution that, throughout the years, rodents may have used insulation around the wiring for nests, leaving the wires dangerously exposed.
Some homes may contain both aluminum and copper. Inspectors say that anyone with concerns about the wiring in their home should contact a qualified electrical contractor who is knowledgeable in working with and repairing aluminum wiring.
Questions about aluminum wiring in residential dwellings can be directed to a senior electrical inspector at (902) 368-5280.
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comments
As I posted on a different website;
I was helping a friend move into a new home and right across the street, a brand new partially finished hose burnt to the ground.
cause/electrical - cause/aluminum wiring
i currently live in a house that has aluminum wiring and i have a hot spot on my bedroom wall that on a regular basis heat up to 36c on my side of the drywall, causing me nothing but greif and sleepless nights.
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