I scheduled a home inspection the other day and when the realtor told me the development, I knew right away that the houses in there have a mix of copper and aluminum wiring. Although there are many mixed feelings about aluminum wiring it is relatively safe for homes if you know how to handle that type of wiring. Aluminum wiring has to be maintained in order for it to function properly in the home. Ok you are probably thinking what does that mean; Well you can only use fixtures and outlets rated for that particular wire. There are warning signs you should be aware of, These symptoms will let you know that there is a potenial problem. Here is a list of the warning signs, Intermittent flickering of lights, Unusual static in the TV or computer, Cover Plates on Switches and outlets that are warm or hot to the touch, Strange odor ( burnt plastic) Circuit breakers or fuses that trip for no reason. If you experience any of these symptoms call an electrical contractor. I would also like to mention that if you do change fixtures in the home that you watch what your purchasing as the newer fixtures should say on them CU-AL which means they are rated for use with either copper or aluminum, Upgrading the aluminum to copper is simple enough to do and you can make these changes without replacing every wire in the home or tearing apart walls and ceilings but I would leave that up to the professionals. In this video, you will see that this seller did not know how to handle the wiring and neither did the person who updated the panel. If left alone this could cause property damage or worse.
When you find your dream home, make sure that you get a thorough home inspection from the Most trusted Delaware Home Inspector, Ted Hinderer of Quality Home Inspections, he serves New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties. Schedule online or give us a Call today at 302-893-1364 for a thorough home inspection. We won’t let you buy the money pit.
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