Dangers of aluminum wiring

    A common problem that most people are aware of is the dangers of aluminum wiring.
 I am often asked by those looking for a new home or who have just purchased a home about this issue. Here is a light switch and receptacle I ran across that clearly shows the damage when it was used with aluminum wiring. There are 2 problems with this picture. First the damage was created by heat from the terminations that are not rated for aluminum wire. The terminations are where the aluminum wiring was attached to the plug or switch. To keep this from happening the installer should have used devices rated for aluminum wire. Not doing so is the common problem that has caused so many home fires. The second problem with this picture was that it was a DIY installer who did not know the proper device to install. I have to admit that I am a "do-it-yourselfer" when it comes to a lot of things. I take pride in what I have been able to accomplish and the money I've saved. However DIY electrical projects are one of the few things that can cause electrocution, fire or even death. Small mistakes made on most DIY home projects are not detrimental however home electrical work can end in disaster. Please when in doubt be safe and contact a licensed electrician.