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Asked by: Cammy Cabildo
business and finance metals industryWhy is aluminum wire bad?
Last Updated: 22nd February, 2020
Aluminum will become defective faster than copper due to certain qualities inherent in the metal. Neglected connections in outlets, switches and light fixtures containing aluminum wiring become increasingly dangerous over time. Poor connections cause wiring to overheat, creating a potential fire hazard.
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Moreover, is aluminum wire bad?
The wiring itself isn't a problem; aluminum conducts electricity safely. The trouble is at the connections. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have “fire hazard conditions” than homes wired with copper.
Beside above, should aluminum wiring be replaced? Aluminum wiring can be replaced or repaired to effectively and permanently reduce the possibility of fire and injury due to failing (overheating) wire connections and splices. It is highly recommended that you hire a qualified electrician to perform this remediation.
Also question is, what is the issue with aluminum wiring?
The problem with aluminum wiring is that it expands and contracts at a high rate, which can lead to loose connections. Connections between aluminum and copper can also cause oxidation, resistance, heat, increased expansion… you get the picture. All of that can lead to a fire.
Is aluminum wire stripping worth it?
Clean Aluminum Wire is free of any insulation, steel, or residue. Rockaway Recycling doesn't suggest stripping the aluminum wire if you have less than a few hundred pounds because it will not yield too much more at the scales. When you are removing the insulation you are removing weight from the material.