Small Gauge single strand Aluminum Wire

Small gauge single strand aluminum wiring was installed in some houses built in the 1960s and 1970s. Aluminum is a silver-looking wire coated with vinyl sheathing. The problems associated with aluminum wiring have to do with overheating of the wires. The overheating of the wires and deterioration of wire connections (to outlets, switches, etc.) can cause a fire hazard.

There are several repairs of Aluminum wiring, although it is highly recommended to defer to a licensed electrician to evaluate and repair the wiring.

More information can be found at the US Consumer Product Safety Commision, Electrical Safety Publication #516 "Repairing Aluminum Wiring" (http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/516.pdf).