We are buying a house built in 1966 with aluminum wiring. I am looking for an avg cost to install COALR receptacles to the outlets and/or install COPALUM crimp devices. The house is 1920 sq feet w/ four bedrooms. We got one price quote for $1700 to $4000 and I wanted to know if this is about average or if it can be done for cheaper. Thank you!
2007-01-19 03:36:11 · 5 answers · asked by Anonymous in Home & Garden ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
Hi Sarah. Aluminum wiring is very hazardous, and the problem is mostly at the terminations. I agree with the other guy, to change all the aluminum to copper. But to answer your original question, most contractors will provide you with a per unit price if you ask, and your cost will largely depend on number of boxes or splices. Rates vary with location.
I don't believe that AL receptacles and switches would do an adequate job, because all the terminations should be addressed. You should contact your local electrical inspector and ask for an "approved method" of repair. He might be able to direct you to a local electrician also. Good luck.
2007-01-19 07:54:53 · answer #1 · answered by greg 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I used to own a home with aluminium wiring in it. In the years 1972 to 1974 the Vietnam War had priority for the copper to be used in bombs, planes, tanks, etc. So for a few years the building industry had to use aluminum wire for the new home construction going on. I never had a single problem with the wiring in my 34 year old house. if your upgrading or puting in a new circuit i suggest going all the way to the service box... either way you can connect the copper to an aluminum wire but only and I stress only by using a cu-al connector. because dissimilar metal react chemically these two wires need a connector between them which will not chemically react... i know its alot but trust the science One thing to remember is that if you ever run a new service line or you do a repair,, make sure that if you use copper wire for the repair or the new install, that you apply the semi liquid compound to all of the connections, between the aluminum wire and the copper wire. You can use standard wire nuts at all connections. You can also buy wire nuts with the compound in them. When connecting aluminum and copper wiring together you must use devices marked CU AL which are designed to keep the 2 wires from touching each other. Best advice is to absolutely not use copper wiring! nti-oxidizing paste to lower the fire hazard. 3M also makes a crimp type tool and connectors that can Hope this helps
2016-03-29 04:43:20 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Copalum Crimp
2016-10-21 00:43:45 · answer #3 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Sarah: I can't answer your question, but I plead with you and your husband to not purchase a house with that wiring if you value your life. In my locale there have been so many homes that have burned down causing loss of life as a result of aluminum wiring. Unless you COMPLETELY exchange all the wiring for copper wire, you will never FEEL SAFE. Rely on history. It is far greater to be SAFE NOW than to be SORRY LATER. NO house is worth that RISK!
2007-01-19 03:56:41 · answer #4 · answered by J K M 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
That is quite a price range. Get at least 3 price quotes which they should give you for free
2007-01-19 04:47:21 · answer #5 · answered by aussie 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋