FIRST USED: The introduction of aluminum wiring in Indiana homes came about in the late 1960's and lasted, for the most part, through the mid to late 1970's. It's popularity was with the new home builders. It's cost was as much as 50% less than that of copper. The cost of installation, however, remained equal to that of copper wiring installations.

PROBLEMS / PROBLEMS: The idea was great, lower cost meant savings for everyone. Right? - Wrong! Unaware to most was the problems that would later show up. A few problems with aluminum wiring used as a conductor of electricity are: Expansion and Contraction: Aluminum wire will react to ambient temperature changes as well as natural heating produced from the flow of electricity. When warm it will expand, as it cools it will contract. When secured under screw terminals it will become loose during the contraction process. Once loose, arcing can take place. A common sign of this happening is lights flickering. As heat is produced the insulation surrounding the wires can become hard, brittle, and if conditions are right, can melt or ignite. Easily Damaged: Due to its soft nature, aluminum wire is susceptible to damage. If a wire is nicked or (ringed) while being stripped for installation, the damaged area becomes the weak link so to speak. The weak area is likely to burn out stopping the flow of current. Special procedures must be followed when preparing aluminum wires for connections. Chemical Reaction: When in contact with dissimilar metals, such as copper wire or screw terminals not approved for use with aluminum, a chemical reaction or corrosion takes place resulting in all of the above problems.

NOW THAT WE KNOW: Now that the industry has learned of the problems associated with the use of aluminum wiring, code rulings have been revised to insure proper usage and installation methods. Should outlets and or switches be installed on aluminum conductors one of two procedures must be followed. 1. The device must be U.L. approved and identified with markings such as CU/AL indicating that it is suitable for use with either copper or aluminum wiring. 2. When using common or standard devices, a copper lead must be used. The connection between the copper lead and the aluminum wiring must have an application of a code approved/U.L. listed inhibitor along with the use of a code approved/U.L. listed twist on connector or crimp style device.

IT'S BETTER USES: Despite the early problems, aluminum is the better product when used for conducting heavier power such as the main power brought to us by the utility companies. When installed through the air, it operates at a cooler temperature, cost less, and is lighter in weight making it less susceptible to breaking or damaging structures when weighted down with ice or affected by strong winds.

WHAT SHOULD I DO?: The fact that your home may be wired with aluminum instead of copper does not warrant evacuation. For most, the ultimate fix would be to have your home rewired with copper. This is more costly and may require some remodeling such as patching and painting upon completion. The alternative would be to have the entire system inspected and any aluminum wiring treated with the procedure noted above. Some insurance companies will lower your cost with proof that the aluminum wiring has been replaced. Thinking of selling your home someday? Consider the options and decide which would help or hinder the decision process of the potential buyer.

SOLUTIONS

To reduce your risk of electrical fires, ongoing maintenance expenses and replacement cost of appliances and electronic equipment you have two solutions...

THE BEST SOLUTION: We can rewire your home replacing
the aluminum wiring with copper upgrading your system to meet
today's safety codes.

OR...

THE ALTERNATIVE SOLUTION: We can perform our
"Aluminum Wiring Maintenance" program to your existing circuitry.

OUR MAINTENANCE PROGRAM

	We will perform a complete diagnostic inspection of the entire electrical system.
	Every light switch and plug/outlet will be removed, the wires will be chemically treated and joined with a copper lead. Following the process a new device will be installed.
	Lighting fixtures will be removed and all connections will receive the code required treatment process. Your provided new lighting units can replace the old units at no additional charge.
	Connection points (commonly known as splices) throughout the attic, crawl, basement and service panel will also undergo treatment.
	Safety ground fault protective outlets will be installed where required by code. Ground Fault Outlets reduce shock hazard in damp locations i.e. kitchens, baths, garages and outdoors.
	We will warranty your electrical system (areas related to our program only) for two full years.