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How to Identify and Manage Aluminum Wiring in Your Atlanta Home

A socket exposed with aluminum wire.

Many people use aluminum wiring in their homes instead of copper. In the early 1900s, aluminum wiring was a popular alternative to copper wiring. In some cases, it replaced wood-insulated wiring. However, by the 1970s, aluminum became less common due to its inability to comply with more rigorous safety standards. At Mr. Electric, our electricians specialize in industrial and residential services in the metro Atlanta, Georgia area. We provide our clients with high-quality solutions to improve the safety and security of their electrical systems. This article will examine the hazards of aluminum wiring in your home and what you can do about it.

Does Aluminum Wiring Put My Property at Risk?

Aluminum wiring has been a popular alternative to copper for a while now. This is because it costs around half as much. But this also means that it can be easily damaged and is more likely to break down than traditional wiring. Aluminum wiring cannot withstand the kind of voltage and current that copper wiring can, which means that it cannot be used in areas where there are high levels of electricity. This includes kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and any room where there might be water or moisture present to create live circuits or short circuits.

How to Identify Aluminum Wiring

How do you know if your house is using aluminum wiring? It was most popular during the 1960s and 1970s construction boom, so it might still be in your home if any construction or electrical work was done during that time frame. Wiring can be identified as aluminum by determining the weight and thickness of the wire, the color, and the insulation. Get help from local electricians if you notice the following:

  • The plastic wire covering has the words AL, ALUM or ALUMINUM printed on it.
  • Your outlets are warm or hot to the touch.
  • The lights flicker frequently in different areas of the property.
  • People often notice the smell of burning plastic without explanation.
  • You hear strange buzzing or humming sounds.

Benefits of Investing in an Electrical Wiring Upgrade

Electricity is a life-sustaining force that we use daily. An upgrade to your electrical wiring system can provide many great rewards. Some of these benefits include:

  • Improving your homes safety.
  • Installing high-quality wiring will help minimize the risk of fires and power outages.
  • Your home will be more energy-efficient, which means lower bills for you and less waste from energy sources.
  • Replace broken or outdated electrical parts that are no longer functioning properly.

Do You Need Help from Local Atlanta Area Electricians? Call Our Friendly Staff Today

To update your homes electrical wiring, call a professional electrician. They will provide safety recommendations for your home and help you find the best way to protect your family from electrical hazards. Are you worried about the safety of your outdated electrical system? Call Mr. Electric of Atlanta, GA, today and learn how we can help you upgrade or replace your aluminum wiring.

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About Mr. Electric

Established in 1994, Mr. Electric® is a global franchise organization providing electrical installation and repair services. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its “Franchise 500,” Mr. Electric franchisees provide these services to both residential and commercial customers at almost 200 locations worldwide. Mr. Electric is a subsidiary of the Neighborly® family of service franchises.
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Just mention the coupon below when scheduling your appointment, and we will check your home’s electrical system for signs of deterioration. It’s one more way we demonstrate our commitment to our clients’ safety and happiness.

  • $25 Off

    Any Electrical Service

    Services vary by location. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. New Customers only. Limited time offer. Valid for new and existing tenants and homeowners. No cash value. Not valid for diagnostic fees. Coupon expires 12/31/2024. Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer and/or discounts. Valid only at participating locations. Locally owned and independently operated franchise companies. Other restrictions may apply. ©2023 Dwyer Franchising LLC. 1010 N. University Parks Dr., Waco, TX 76707.

    For additional terms, visit: neighborly.com/terms-of-use.

    Expires: 12/31/2024 Thunderbolt watermark.
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  • Complimentary Home Electrical Safety Check

    Services vary by location. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises. New Customers only. Limited time offer. Valid for new and existing tenants and homeowners. No cash value. Not valid for diagnostic fees. Coupon expires 12/31/2024. Coupon must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with any other offer and/or discounts. Valid only at participating locations. Locally owned and independently operated franchise companies. Other restrictions may apply. ©2023 Dwyer Franchising LLC. 1010 N. University Parks Dr., Waco, TX 76707.

    For additional terms, visit: neighborly.com/terms-of-use.

    Expires: 12/31/2024 Thunderbolt watermark.
    Claim Offer

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Mr. Electric electrician arriving to perform electrical repair service.