Aluminum wiring fire risk — how serious is it?

Aluminum wiring is a serious fire hazard that requires immediate professional attention. Homes with aluminum wiring are 55 times more likely to have electrical fires than those with copper wiring, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission.

Aluminum wiring was commonly installed in New Brunswick homes between 1965-1975 when copper prices soared. The problem isn't the aluminum wire itself, but how it behaves at connections. Aluminum expands and contracts more than copper with temperature changes, causing connections to loosen over time. Loose connections create resistance, which generates heat, which can ignite surrounding materials.

Warning signs of aluminum wiring problems include warm outlet covers or switch plates, flickering lights, burning smells near outlets, and outlets that work intermittently. You might also notice scorch marks around outlets or switches. If you experience any of these symptoms, shut off the circuit immediately and contact an electrician.

Most insurance companies in New Brunswick now require aluminum wiring remediation before providing coverage on older homes. Some insurers will cancel policies outright if they discover unremediated aluminum wiring during inspections. This makes aluminum wiring not just a safety issue, but a significant financial liability.

TSANB-approved solutions include complete rewiring (the gold standard) or COPALUM crimp connections performed by specially trained electricians. The cheaper "pigtailing" method using wire nuts is no longer considered safe or code-compliant in New Brunswick. Complete rewiring typically costs $8,000-$15,000 for an average home, while COPALUM repairs run $150-$300 per connection.

Never attempt DIY repairs on aluminum wiring. Working with aluminum requires special techniques and materials that only licensed electricians should handle. Improper repairs actually increase fire risk. Additionally, any aluminum wiring work in New Brunswick requires TSANB permits and professional inspection.

If you suspect aluminum wiring in your home, have it inspected immediately by a licensed electrician familiar with aluminum wiring issues. They can assess the condition of connections and recommend the appropriate remediation strategy. This isn't something to delay — aluminum wiring fires can happen without warning and spread rapidly.

Need help finding an electrician experienced with aluminum wiring? New Brunswick Electrical can match you with qualified professionals who understand the specific challenges of aluminum wiring remediation and can ensure your home meets current safety standards.