Aluminum Outlets

[Bryan O.]

Hi all,

I recently had a unit tripping the breaker. The electrician fixed the issue but noted that the wiring is aluminum and that there are outlets specifically made for aluminum wiring and that these should be used throughout the property. I've Googled around a bit, but am not sure really what I am looking for. I am comfortable changing the outlets, but want to make sure I'm using the right thing.

Anyone know of/recommend an outlet rated for aluminum wiring?

[Todd Plambeck]

Leviton makes outlets and switches that are compatible with aluminum wiring.  Home Depot carries them.  These aren't the $.79 ones, they are more like $2.50.

[Bryan O.]

Thank you @Todd Plambeck. Those switches are CO/ALR (Google-fodder!). That means CO(pper)/AL(uminum), R(evised). So they can handle both type of wiring. Apparently, they are a good step, but not the end all, be all. Here is a great write-up regarding the main ways to "fully" fix aluminum. It seems like the complaint with CO/ALR outlets is that the rest of the wiring throughout may have pigtails or other methods of connecting that get overlooked, and those are also potential hazards.

It may make sense for me to go play in the attic this spring and see how many sets of wires I can just replace with copper.

[Don Meinke]

MOST of the AL wiring we see here locally are in mobile homes of older vintage.  IF your whole house is aluminum wire rewiring it is the best thing you can do.  If its a one story with an attic and basement you have it made,,,if its on a crawl space its doable but more work. 

 I did my whole house converting over the old knob and tube spaghetti works mess to 12 gauge plug ins and 14 gauge ceiling lights with 3 way switches where it needs it.

I would say it would be nice to have even a small helper, kid, wife, girlfriend, grab a wire or listen and look for you.  They can see fish tape and grab it.  Find where the wire runs down inside the partitions and drill a few inches over. 

 Finding a chase to put a PVC conduit from fuse box to attic is hardest part.  I put a disconnect up there in case of working on anything.  Also put some lights and plug ins in the attic.  You will use them more than you think.

And plenty of outside the house outlets on GFIs also.  Inside it is best if you can locate an outlet on each wall if not 2 or 3 if longer.  Cuts down on extension cord use which is dangerous.

Replace all existing and add more  than you think is necessary.  And if the box doesnt have tons of room,,,start there,,,replace it with a big 200 amp with as many  breaker spaces as you can find.