Aluminum wiring, once seen as a quick fix for rising copper prices in the 60s and 70s, is now one of the top electrical safety concerns in older homes. It’s not a question of if it causes issues—it’s a question of when.
At Jett Electrical Services, we’ve inspected and repaired countless homes in Edmonton that unknowingly carried the risk of electrical fires, insurance denials, and costly damage due to aging aluminum wiring.
In this blog, we’ll tell you everything you need to know:
- What makes aluminum wiring so dangerous
- How to tell if your home has it
- What your insurance company won’t tell you
- And most importantly—how to make your home safe again
The Problem with Aluminum Wiring
Aluminum was used widely in homes between 1965–1975, but even today, we find it in homes built later—especially in certain renovations or additions.
So what’s the big deal?
It’s prone to:
- Expansion and contraction with heat, loosening connections
- Oxidation (aluminum rusts differently than copper—causing resistance)
- Wire creep, which slowly pulls away from screws and terminals
- Higher resistance, meaning more heat under load
All of this adds up to one thing: Fire risk.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to experience connection-related fire hazards.
This isn’t rare—it’s real. We’ve seen outlets scorched, panels humming, and homes fully rewired after near disasters.
Does My Home Have Aluminum Wiring?
If your home was built or renovated between 1965 and the early 80s, it’s time to check.
Here’s how to find out:
- Open your electrical panel (carefully). Look for markings on visible wires:
- “AL” or “ALUM” stamped on the insulation
- Silvery-gray wires instead of copper color
- Check outlets or switches. If you’re comfortable, remove the faceplate and look for aluminum conductors behind the terminals.
- Call a licensed electrician. This is the safest and most reliable way to confirm.
Still unsure? We offer affordable inspections and will give you a straight answer—no scare tactics, just facts.
🧾 Insurance Companies Are Catching On
Many insurance companies refuse to insure homes with aluminum wiring—unless it’s been corrected by a licensed electrician. Some may increase premiums or cancel policies entirely if aluminum wiring is found during inspection.
If your aluminum wiring hasn’t been upgraded, you could be denied coverage for electrical fires even if you’re fully paid up.
✅ At Jett, we provide documentation after corrections that help you stay covered and even qualify for lower premiums.
How We Make Homes Safe Again
Let’s get one thing straight—you don’t always need to fully rewire your home (although sometimes it’s the smartest choice).
There are 3 proven, code-approved ways to fix the issue:
1. Rewiring (Complete Replacement)
✔ Best long-term solution
✔ Removes all aluminum wire
✔ Highest upfront cost
Great for homes undergoing major renovations or when aluminum is severely degraded.
2. COPALUM Crimping (Not Available in Canada)
🚫 A permanent fix in the U.S.—but not CSA-approved here.
3. Aluminum Wiring Pigtailing (What Jett Recommends)
✔ Approved method in Canada
✔ We connect short copper “pigtails” to the ends of aluminum wires using specialized connectors (not just wire nuts!)
✔ Cost-effective and insurance-friendly
Not all pigtails are created equal—we use CSA-approved materials and torque-tested connectors to meet code and ensure lasting safety.
The Jett Difference: How We Handle Aluminum Wiring Corrections
We don’t just fix the wiring—we future-proof your home. Here’s our process:
Step 1: Full Inspection
We map your aluminum circuits, assess conditions, and create a transparent plan.
Step 2: Thermal Imaging & Load Checks
We use infrared tools to detect hot spots behind walls you can’t see.
Step 3: Pigtailing with Precision
Every splice is done by a Red Seal or Master Electrician, with torque testing and documentation.
Step 4: Panel Assessment
If your panel is outdated, we recommend upgrades that make the entire system safer and more reliable.
Step 5: Permit & Report
We handle the electrical permit, code compliance, and insurer documentation—no hassle, just peace of mind.
Homeowners Ask Us:
Can I leave aluminum wiring alone if nothing’s happened yet?
Technically, yes—but it’s a gamble. Just because it hasn’t failed yet doesn’t mean it won’t soon.
Does it affect resale value?
Absolutely. Many buyers walk away or request price reductions when they see aluminum wiring.
Can I fix it myself?
No. Aluminum is extremely sensitive, and improper connections can be worse than none at all. Only licensed electricians should handle this.
💸 What Does It Cost to Fix Aluminum Wiring?
| Correction Type | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Pigtailing (per outlet) | $40–$100 |
| Full Rewire (average home) | $8,000–$20,000+ |
| Panel Upgrade (if needed) | $1,200–$3,500 |
| Inspection Report | Included with service |
At Jett Electrical Services, we’ll tailor a plan that matches your budget—without compromising safety.
We Also Offer:
- Service & Panel Upgrades
- Renovation Wiring
- LED Lighting
- New Construction & Basement Development
- Maintenance for Homes and Businesses
Every project is handled by certified pros with attention to detail and a reputation for integrity.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
The worst part about aluminum wiring? You won’t know it’s a problem until something goes wrong. But by then, it could be a scorched outlet, a damaged appliance—or a tragic house fire.
Don’t take the risk. Let the licensed experts at Jett Electrical Services inspect, correct, and protect your home the right way.
👉 Book your aluminum wiring consultation today:
🔌 https://jettelectrical.ca/contact-us/
📞 Call us at 780-246-3852
