If your home was built between the 1960s and late 1970s, there’s a good chance it contains aluminum electrical wiring. At the time, aluminum was a cost-effective alternative to copper — but today, we know it comes with safety and performance concerns.
At SDG Electric, we frequently inspect and repair aluminum wiring in older homes throughout the Greater Phoenix area, helping homeowners keep their electrical systems safe and reliable.
During the post-war construction boom, the price of copper skyrocketed. Builders turned to aluminum because it was:
Lightweight and affordable
Fairly conductive
Easy to source
Unfortunately, aluminum wiring didn’t perform as well as copper over time, especially in small residential circuits.
Although aluminum conducts electricity effectively, it behaves differently from copper — and those differences can create long-term safety issues.
Aluminum expands more than copper when it heats up, which can cause connections to loosen over time. Loose connections increase resistance, creating heat and potential fire risks.
Aluminum forms an oxide layer that resists electrical current. This oxidation can lead to overheating and arcing at outlets and switches.
Aluminum is softer and more brittle than copper, making it prone to nicks, bends, or breaks during installation or maintenance.
Many electrical devices and connectors are rated for copper only. Using aluminum wiring with improper connectors can lead to dangerous conditions.
If your home has aluminum wiring, look out for:
Flickering or dimming lights
Warm outlets or switches
A burning smell near receptacles
Frequent breaker trips
If you notice any of these signs, contact a licensed Phoenix electrician immediately.
At SDG Electric, our certified electricians provide aluminum wiring inspection, repair, and replacement services throughout the Greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Tempe.
We offer several proven solutions:
COPALUM or AlumiConn connectors to safely bond aluminum to copper
Pigtailing, which adds short copper leads to aluminum wires for safer device connections
Full or partial rewiring to upgrade older systems to copper
Comprehensive safety inspections to prevent future problems
Not every home needs a full rewire, but upgrading to copper wiring is a wise investment during remodels or system upgrades. Copper offers:
Higher conductivity
Better durability
Lower maintenance needs
Replacing aluminum wiring can increase your home’s safety, reliability, and resale value.
If your home still has aluminum conductors, don’t wait until a problem arises. The licensed electricians at SDG Electric can inspect your wiring, identify hazards, and recommend the safest repair or replacement options.
✅ Licensed and insured Phoenix electricians
✅ Experienced in aluminum-to-copper conversions
✅ Serving residential customers across the Greater Phoenix area
📞 Call SDG Electric today at [your phone number] or schedule an electrical inspection online to make your home safer and more efficient.
Is aluminum wiring a fire hazard?
Yes — if connections loosen or oxidize, aluminum wiring can overheat and increase the risk of electrical fires. Regular inspections and proper repairs (like COPALUM or AlumiConn connectors) greatly reduce that risk.
Can aluminum wiring be repaired, or does it need to be replaced?
In many cases, aluminum wiring can be safely repaired or upgraded without replacing the entire system. A qualified electrician can connect copper “pigtails” or install approved connectors to ensure safe operation.
How do I know if my home has aluminum wiring?
Check your electrical panel or look at visible wiring in your attic or basement. Aluminum wires are often marked with “AL” or “ALUMINUM.” If you’re unsure, schedule an inspection — SDG Electric can confirm it quickly and safely.
What does it cost to replace or repair aluminum wiring?
Costs vary based on your home’s size and the extent of the work. Simple repairs may cost a few hundred dollars, while full rewiring can range into several thousand. SDG Electric offers free estimates for aluminum wiring upgrades in the Phoenix area.
Will insurance cover homes with aluminum wiring?
Some insurance companies are cautious about homes with aluminum wiring. Having your system inspected and documented by a licensed electrician can help you meet safety requirements and avoid policy issues.
