Circuit 2
Aluminum wiring
Houses wired from the mid-1960s to the mid-1970s sometimes have aluminum branch circuits. The connections at outlets, switches and fixtures matter most. We find which you have and fix the connections or replace the run.
We identify the cable before we recommend anything
Two kinds of fix, each written with its price
A label at every device we touch
When to call
Signs it is on your house
Outlets or switches that feel warm
Warm to the touch is worth a call.
Lights that flicker
Often a loose connection somewhere on the circuit.
Cable marked AL or ALUMINUM
Look at the jacket in the basement, attic or panel.
A plug that will not stay in
Or an outlet that has darkened.
A burning smell near an outlet
Call 911 if there is fire. If it is safe, turn off the breaker. Then call us.
A report that lists aluminum branch circuits
The usual reason for a call.
What the visit includes
What the visit includes
In this order.
- 01
Step 1: Identify the cable
From the jacket markings at the panel, in the attic or at a box.
- 02
Step 2: Check the connections
At the panel and at a sample of outlets, switches and fixtures.
- 03
Step 3: Explain the options
Connectors made for aluminum, or new copper runs. Both written with prices.
- 04
Step 4: The written scope
Each circuit on its own lines.
- 05
Step 5: The work
Done circuit by circuit, so the house is never without all its power.
- 06
Step 6: Inspection and the letter
A short letter lists what was done, for your closing file or your carrier.
How pricing works
What moves the number for this circuit
The written quote is the price. Nothing on this page is.
What moves the number
The count matters more than the square footage.
How many outlets, switches and fixtures are on aluminum
Which fix you choose
Whether walls are finished
The connection at the panel
Permit and inspection fees
What the quote lists
Equipment, labor, permit and utility steps on separate lines, for the circuits you choose.
Not included: drywall repair and paint
Not included: utility fees, passed through
Not included: circuits you leave for later
When you get it
In writing, after the walk-through. If the walk-through shows more than the report said, we say so before we quote.
The visit has a fee, told to you when you book
It comes off the work if you go ahead within 30 days
Questions
Questions about aluminum wiring
Is aluminum wiring dangerous?
It can be when connections loosen. Many houses with it have been lived in for decades. The fix depends on the house, and we tell you which we see.
Do I have to rewire the house?
Not always. Replacing every run is one option. Making each connection with a part made for aluminum is another. We write both.
How do I know if I have it?
Look at the cable jacket in the basement, attic or panel for AL or ALUMINUM. Or text us photos.
Will my insurer care?
Some do. Ask your agent, and send us the letter if there is one. We cannot promise what a carrier will accept.
What if an outlet is hot?
Call 911 if there is fire. If it is safe, turn off the breaker and leave it off. Then call us.
Next step
Send us the aluminum report
Photos of the report or the inside of the panel are fine.