Landlord · Dallas, TX · Member since 2012 · 505 posts · 34 votes
Hey guys, there is a house I am looking at picking up from the 1960s that has aluminium wiring. Traditionally I pigtail the wires, but was doing some research online and it seems there is a better option.
I found this video about using "colar" device which is a safer approach and safer than pigtailing. Does anyone have more information about the "colar" approach? I am not even sure how to spell it correctly and google does not seem to help. Here is a video of an electrician talking about colar for aluminum wiring. http://youtu.be/Fax5Qj2H8hY?t=1m49s
Never used one myself. I have worked with aluminum wiring and, while there can be issues with it, it's generally not a big deal if you take precautions. If you're going to pigtail in some copper wiring, just make sure your connections are really tight and coat the bare wires with an anti-oxidant grease (like Noalox).
I've been comfortable with using the CO/ALR devices. I've had issues with the copper devices used on alum. wire where the devices would make a popping/clicking sound and heat up. All devices should be inspected for arching and tightness.
I've also used AlumiConn alum. to copper connecters. They are a little larger than wire nuts. You would use these when you can't use a CO/ALR device or where an alum. wire is tied to copper wire such as in a junction box.
A few things to keep in mind:
Don't score the wire; it is delicate and will likely crack.
And as Kyle J. said make sure all connections are tight and use an anti-oxidant grease. Alum. wire will expand and contract as well as corrode.
The best way to join alum. wire to copper is the crimping method. It is not DIY; the tools are expensive and I believe you need to be licensed for it.
As an added level of safety, you can install an AFCI at the circuit breaker box. This may not work if the house has upgrades that were not properly done.