Aluminum Wiring Treatment

Aluminum Wiring Treatment & Remediation in Southeast Louisiana

If your home was built between 1965 and 1973, there’s a significant chance it contains aluminum wiring — a known fire hazard that requires professional attention. CR Electric provides expert aluminum wiring treatment and remediation for homes across the Greater New Orleans and Northshore areas, using proven methods to make your electrical system safe.

Why Is Aluminum Wiring Dangerous?

Aluminum wiring was used in residential construction during the late 1960s and early 1970s as a cheaper alternative to copper. However, aluminum has properties that make it problematic in residential wiring:

• Oxidation — Aluminum oxidizes when exposed to air, creating a resistive coating that generates heat at connection points.
• Thermal expansion — Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper when heated, causing connections to loosen over time.
• Softness — Aluminum is softer than copper, making it prone to damage from overtightened connections.
• Fire risk — The Consumer Product Safety Commission found that homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have fire-hazard conditions at outlets and switches.

Our Aluminum Wiring Treatment Options

COPALUM Crimping (Preferred Method)

The COPALUM crimp method is the most reliable permanent repair recommended by the CPSC. A specially designed copper connector is crimped to each aluminum wire end, creating a safe, permanent copper-to-device connection.

AlumiConn Connectors

AlumiConn lug connectors provide a reliable alternative where COPALUM is not available. These set-screw connectors create a safe transition from aluminum to copper pigtails at every outlet, switch, and fixture.

Complete Rewiring

For homes with extensive aluminum wiring damage or when combined with other upgrades, a complete rewire may be the most cost-effective long-term solution.

Signs of Aluminum Wiring Problems

• Warm or hot outlet cover plates
• Flickering lights
• Outlets or switches that don’t work intermittently
• Burning smell near outlets or switches
• Discolored or melted outlet covers
• Sparking when plugging in or unplugging devices

Why Choose CR Electric

Aluminum wiring remediation requires specialized knowledge and materials. CR Electric’s Licensed Master Electricians have treated aluminum wiring in hundreds of Southeast Louisiana homes. We’ll assess your specific situation and recommend the most effective and economical solution. Owner Chris Ray has over 25 years of experience with every type of residential wiring found in the region.

Request a free aluminum wiring assessment or call:

• Southshore: (504) 737-6024
• Northshore: (985) 400-8141