Edmonton Alert: Why Aluminum Wiring Pigtail is a Must-Have for Home Safety!
Hello Edmonton homeowners! If your home is a bit older, you might have aluminum wiring behind your walls. This used to be pretty common because it was less expensive than copper wire, but it can cause some issues as it gets older. Today, I want to chat about a smart solution called pigtailing that can help make your aluminum wiring safer.
What’s the Deal with Aluminum Wiring?
From the 1960s to the 1970s, builders often used aluminum wire in homes because it was more budget-friendly than copper wire. But there’s a catch: aluminum expands and contracts more than copper when it heats up and cools down. Over time, this can loosen the connections and might even lead to electrical problems.
The Solution: Pigtailing
Pigtailing means connecting a short piece of copper wire to the end of the aluminum wire. This copper wire is then attached to the electrical device, like a light fixture or a breaker. It’s a simple fix but really important for keeping things safe.
In cities like Edmonton, many of the charming older homes still have their original aluminum wiring. While it’s been doing the job for decades, it can become a safety risk as it ages. That’s where pigtailing comes in—it helps prevent potential electrical issues that could arise from old, tired aluminum wire that has been subjected to corrosion.
How an Electrician Does Pigtailing
Here’s what typically happens when a skilled electrician comes to do pigtailing in your home:
- Inspection: They’ll take a look at your wiring to see where the pigtailing is needed.
- Preparation: The ends of the aluminum wires are cleaned up and made ready to be joined with copper wire.
- Connection: A special connector is used to join the aluminum wire to the new copper wire.
- Testing: After everything is hooked up, the electrician will check to make sure it’s all safe and sound.
Doing this job yourself might seem like a cost-saver, but working with electricity can be risky. It’s better to let a professional handle it.
Hiring an Electrician vs. DIY
Pigtailing isn’t a great DIY project because of the dangers involved. It’s always safer and smarter to hire a professional electrician who knows exactly how to handle aluminum and copper wire safely, not to mention electricity. In Edmonton, you’ll want someone who is licensed and knows all about the local codes and standards for electrical safety.
A Real Example from Edmonton
One homeowner in Edmonton had problems with flickering lights and occasionally getting a small shock when touching appliances. After bringing in an electrician to pigtail the aluminum wiring, those scary issues went away. It’s a real relief to know your home is safe.
The Technical Side: Arcs, Overheating, and More
When aluminum wiring loosens at the connections, it can cause small sparks—or arcs—that might cause a risk of overheating. Over time, this can become a serious hazard. Pigtailing with copper wire helps keep everything tight and reduces these risks.
What About Insurance?
Did you know that some insurance companies are wary of homes with aluminum wiring? They often require homeowners to have it inspected or updated before they’ll provide coverage. Copper pigtailing can be a part of making sure your home meets these requirements.
Conclusion
If you’re living in an older home in Edmonton, it’s a good idea to think about the electrical safety of your aluminum wiring. Pigtailing is a reliable solution that extends the life of your wiring and keeps your home safe from electrical hazards.
Ready to Renovate? Contact Hauer Power Electrical Ltd.
Are you planning a renovation or need an upgrade to your home’s electrical panel? Don’t forget about the aluminum wiring! Hauer Power Electrical Ltd. and its expert electricians are right here in Edmonton and ready to help. Whether you need a full electrical panel upgrade, complete rewire or just some expert advice on your current wiring, we’re here to assist.
Upgrading your home’s electrical system can make it safer and more suitable for today’s power needs. Contact us at Hauer Power Electrical Ltd., and let’s make sure your home is as safe and efficient as possible!
Remember: Before starting any renovation, especially if you’re considering adding new appliances or fixtures, it’s crucial to check your electrical system. Upgrades like these might require more power than your aluminum wire system can handle safely. A professional electrician can assess if you need a panel upgrade or other adjustments to ensure everything works smoothly and safely.
Taking these steps not only protects your home but can also give you peace of mind. So, let’s keep our Edmonton homes safe and sound with some smart electrical upgrades properly installed by the electrical contractor who specializes in aluminum upgrades!