Why Aluminum Wiring Was Used
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, copper prices spiked dramatically. Builders switched to aluminum wiring as a cost-saving measure. Millions of homes were wired with aluminum branch circuit wiring during this period.
The aluminum wire itself conducts electricity adequately. The problem is what happens where aluminum connects to switches, outlets, and other devices. Aluminum and copper expand at different rates when heated. Aluminum also oxidizes differently than copper. Over time, connections loosen and oxidize, creating resistance that generates heat.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, homes with aluminum wiring may be up to 55 times more likely to have connections reach fire hazard conditions compared to homes wired with copper. That statistic gets attention for good reason.
What Inspectors Look For
Your inspector checks several things when aluminum wiring is present:
| Inspection Point | What It Indicates |
|---|---|
| Wire gauge and type at panel | Confirms aluminum branch circuits present |
| Outlet and switch connections | Reveals if proper connectors used |
| Signs of overheating | Discoloration, melting, warm faceplates |
| CO/ALR rated devices | Whether devices designed for aluminum are installed |
| Previous remediation | Evidence of pigtailing or other repairs |
Inspectors can't open every junction box and outlet to examine connections directly. They note the presence of aluminum wiring and any visible concerns, then recommend evaluation by a qualified electrician.
Remediation Options Compared
Several approaches address aluminum wiring concerns. Cost and effectiveness vary:
Complete rewiring ($8,000-20,000+): Replacing all aluminum with copper eliminates the issue entirely. This is expensive and often unnecessary. It makes sense during major renovations when walls are already open.
COPALUM crimping ($50-75 per connection): A copper pigtail is attached to each aluminum wire using a specialized crimping tool. The CPSC considers this a permanent repair. Finding certified COPALUM installers can be challenging.
AlumiConn connectors ($10-15 per connection plus labor): These set-screw connectors create a reliable aluminum-to-copper transition. They're easier to install than COPALUM and widely accepted by electricians and inspectors.
CO/ALR devices ($5-15 per device plus labor): Switches and outlets rated for aluminum connections can replace standard devices. This is the minimum acceptable approach but doesn't address junction box connections.
Insurance Considerations
Insurance companies view aluminum wiring differently. Some require:
Disclosure that aluminum wiring exists. Most home insurance applications ask about wiring materials.
Inspection by a licensed electrician confirming connections are properly remediated or in safe condition.
Completed remediation before issuing or renewing coverage.
Others charge higher premiums for homes with untreated aluminum wiring. A few won't insure these homes at all.
Before closing on a home with aluminum wiring, contact potential insurers. Know what they require and factor any remediation costs into your negotiations.
Negotiation and Resale Impact
Aluminum wiring affects value and marketability. Buyers often request credits or repairs when inspection reports note it.
A reasonable approach: get quotes for AlumiConn or COPALUM remediation. This typically runs $1,500-4,000 for a whole house depending on the number of connections. Request a credit or have the seller complete the work before closing.
Sellers who have already remediated aluminum wiring should keep documentation. Proof of proper remediation reassures buyers and satisfies insurance requirements.
An untreated aluminum wiring disclosure can extend time on market and reduce offers. The cost of remediation is almost always less than the impact on sale price.
What's Not Concerning
Not all aluminum wiring is problematic:
Aluminum service entrance cable: The large wires from the meter to the panel are often aluminum. This is standard practice and not a concern when properly installed.
Modern aluminum wiring (AA-8000 series): Current aluminum alloys designed for wiring don't have the same connection issues as 1960s-era aluminum. New construction may use aluminum for larger circuits without concern.
240-volt circuits: Dedicated circuits for dryers, ranges, and HVAC often use aluminum appropriately sized for the application.
The concern is specifically about 15 and 20-amp branch circuits using older aluminum alloys. Your inspector should clarify what they found.