Why the wiring era matters
For a stretch of years in the mid-1960s to the early 1970s, when copper prices were high, some builders used aluminum for ordinary 15- and 20-amp household circuits. It is widely documented that older aluminum branch wiring connected to devices not rated for it can loosen and overheat at outlets, switches and splices. That is a known fire risk, not a reason for panic, and there are recognized repair methods.
Not every house of that age has it, and many have since been rewired or repaired. Larger aluminum feeders for ranges, dryers and the service entrance are common in houses of every era and are a separate matter. If your home was built in that window, an electrical fire is a good reason to have an electrician confirm what you have.
Houses from the late 1970s through the 1990s, which make up much of Centennial, generally have copper branch wiring. Their electrical fires tend to trace to damaged cords, overloaded power strips, failed devices, rodent damage or later DIY work rather than to the original wiring material.
Terms you may hear from the electrician
- Branch circuit
- A circuit running from the panel to outlets, switches and lights, as opposed to the main service feed.
- Pigtailing
- Joining a short piece of copper wire to aluminum with a connector rated for both, so devices connect to copper.
- CO/ALR
- A rating marked on some switches and outlets indicating they are intended for use with aluminum wire.
- AFCI
- Arc-fault circuit interrupter, a breaker or outlet designed to detect dangerous arcing and shut the circuit off.
- Rough-in inspection
- The building department's inspection of new wiring before walls are closed with drywall.
What the fire rebuild should cover electrically
- A licensed electrician's evaluation of every circuit that ran through the damaged area
- Identification of the wiring material throughout the house, not just the burned room
- Replacement of any wiring, boxes and devices exposed to heat or heavy smoke
- Permit and inspection for electrical repairs, arranged through the right building department
- Smoke alarms replaced and tested, since old alarms near the fire may be damaged
- Written notes on what was found, for your records and a future buyer
Questions for your insurer and electrician
- Is replacing wiring beyond the damaged area covered, or is it an upgrade I pay for?
- Does my policy include ordinance or law coverage for code-required upgrades?
- Which repair method do you recommend for aluminum circuits that stay, and why?
- Will walls be opened enough to inspect splices hidden in junction boxes?
Common questions
Did aluminum wiring cause my fire?
Only an investigator or electrician who examines the origin can say. Fire departments sometimes note a probable cause; ask for a copy of the incident report.
General information for Centennial, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.