Homes built roughly between 1965 and 1975 were often wired with aluminum branch circuits during a period of high copper prices. Decades later, that wiring is a leading hidden hazard in older homes - and many owners have no idea they have it.
Why aluminum wiring is a concern
Aluminum expands, contracts, and oxidizes differently than copper. Over time, connections at outlets, switches, and the panel can loosen and overheat, which is a recognized fire hazard. The wire itself isn't the problem so much as its connections.
How to know if you have it
Look for the word "ALUMINUM" or "AL" printed on the cable jacket at the panel, or a manufacture date in the late 1960s to 1970s. The safest approach is to have a licensed electrician inspect it - don't disturb connections yourself.
The good news: a permanent fix
You usually don't need to rewire the whole house. Approved connector repairs (such as AlumiConn or COPALUM-style terminations) at every connection make the system safe permanently, with no future maintenance. Full or partial copper rewiring is an option when warranted.
Think you have aluminum wiring? CR Electric inspects and permanently repairs aluminum wiring, with documentation for your insurer or home sale. Learn more.