2007-01-28 12:27:50 · 9 answers · asked by Carrino 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Engineering
Copper.
Many years ago some homes were built with aluminum wiring and an unsafe condition developed where the aluminum wires were connected to non-aluminum fixtures (outlets, switches, lighting fixtures, etc.). Aluminum and copper would heat and contract at different rates causing the connection to fail. Arcing and fires could result.
Those homes had to be retrofitted with a special pigtail on each wire connection.
Today, copper wiring (expensive though it may be) is the ongoing standard.
2007-01-29 03:05:44 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
To clarify the others answers regarding use of aluminum. Aluminum is currently used in many new homes in the US for High voltage, high current application, most often with electric ovens. Aluminum is also used in High Tension/Voltage power transmission.
2007-01-28 12:40:18 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
By and large, they are copper.
Occationally you'll run into some aluminum wiring - it is important that every fixture be labeled for use with aluminum if aluminum wiring is to be used or already present.
2007-01-28 12:34:48 · answer #3 · answered by LeAnne 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Copper. In older houses, sometimes aluminum.
2007-01-28 12:32:25 · answer #4 · answered by Maryfrances 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Usually copper, but also aluminum.
2007-01-28 12:31:38 · answer #5 · answered by bobo383 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
copper with a plastic insulator. old styles were aluminum
2007-01-28 12:31:14 · answer #6 · answered by earlanon 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
copper or aluminum
2007-01-29 09:34:51 · answer #7 · answered by TheElectrician 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
copper
2007-01-28 12:52:45 · answer #8 · answered by aliyyahmeera 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Copper
Aluminum has been used
2007-01-28 12:32:06 · answer #9 · answered by October 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋