Aluminum wiring in 1960s and 1970s Dallas homes
For a few years in the late 1960s and early 1970s, copper prices pushed builders to use aluminum for branch wiring. Lots of Dallas houses from that window still have it.
How to tell
Look at wire jackets in the attic or at the panel for the word ALUMINUM or AL. Silver-colored wire at outlets is another sign. Homes built roughly 1965 to 1973 are most likely.
Why connections are the risk
Aluminum expands, contracts and oxidizes at terminals more than copper. Over years, connections can loosen and overheat.
Repair options
Listed copper-to-aluminum connectors like AlumiConn and COPALUM at every connection are recognized fixes. Full rewiring is the other option.
Insurance and resale
Some insurers ask about aluminum wiring. Documentation of a proper repair helps.
What a repair visit looks like
We start at the panel, then count every outlet, switch, fixture and junction box on the aluminum circuits. Each connection gets a short copper pigtail joined with a listed connector, and devices are replaced where terminals are damaged. A typical house takes one to three days. You get a document listing what was repaired, which helps with insurance and resale.
Quick answers
Which Dallas neighborhoods have aluminum wiring?
It is common in homes built from about 1965 to 1973, including parts of Lake Highlands, Far North Dallas, Richardson and Garland.
Can I just replace outlets with ones marked CO/ALR?
CO/ALR devices are an option for some connections, but splices and other connections still need attention.
Services mentioned in this post
Aluminum Wiring Repair
Make 1960s and 1970s aluminum branch wiring safe with approved connectors or new copper.
Learn moreElectrical Safety Inspection
A full check of the panel, wiring, outlets and protection, with a written report.
Learn moreFPE & Zinsco Panel Replacement
Replace Federal Pacific Stab-Lok, Zinsco and other problem panels before they fail.
Learn moreLights out, breaker tripping, or a burning smell?
Call now. A person answers around the clock and we send the nearest NTX electrician who can safely take the job.