Many people would advise against splicing copper and aluminum wires. This means that the wire connector you choose needs to be approved for joining AL/CU. In this section, it is stated that differing wires – such as copper and aluminum wires – cannot be spliced where physical contact occurs between them – unless the device is rated for use like that.Įssentially, this means that you can splice or connect copper and aluminum wire together when using the correct device. In Section 110.4, Electrical Connections, the NEC discussed splicing or connecting conductors of different metals.
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However, can you splice or connect copper wire to aluminum wire together?įirstly, let’s take a look at whether or not the National Electrical Code allows this. As discussed earlier, there are safety benefits to opting for copper wires over aluminum wires. In Section 110.5, it is stipulated that conductors that are used in your home to carry current must be made of copper, aluminum, or copper-clad aluminum materials.įrom the above, it is clear that you can legally use copper or aluminum wire in your home. In the 2020 National Electrical Code, conductors are discussed in Article 110, Requirements for Electrical Installations. Various shrink tube connectors and some wire Can You Splice/Connect Copper and Aluminum Wire Together?
Ultimately, this makes copper wire the safer wiring choice. This is linked to the safety dangers the CPSC discussed regarding aluminum wires and the risk of a fire hazard. One of the drawbacks of aluminum wires is their corrosive nature. Copper wire, however, is able to resist the effects of temperature changes. In low temperatures, those same aluminum wires will contract. In high temperatures, aluminum wires have the tendency to expand. These factors are closely linked to their molecular properties. Copper wire, on the other hand, is heavier and more expensive. Due to this, aluminum wires are also cheaper to purchase. #2: Aluminum Wires Are LighterĬompared to copper wires, aluminum wires are more lightweight. This makes copper wire an ideal choice for wiring.
In fact, aluminum wiring has 40% less conductivity than copper wiring. Due to their varying properties, copper has a higher conductivity than aluminum. The properties of copper and aluminum differ greatly. The Differences Between Copper and Aluminum Wiresīefore we take a look at whether or not it’s possible to splice copper and aluminum wires together, let’s take a closer look at these wires and how they differ from each other. That is because the CPSC (the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission) revealed that homes with aluminum wires were more than 50 times likely to be at risk of a fire hazard. However, modern homes are now switching to copper wire. Aluminum is a non-magnetic metal and is one of the best conductors.ĭue to these properties, aluminum wires have been commonly used in homes. Aluminum wires are known for their lightweight nature and recyclable nature. Ultimately, the popularity of aluminum cables comes down to their unique properties. What is Aluminum Wire?Īluminum wires are widely used for cables. Many modern homes are now switching to copper wiring.
However, copper is a fantastic thermal conductor. It is also heavier than other types of wires. However, copper is generally more expensive than other wiring options. From your HVAC system to your HD flat-screen TV, copper wires are used in many household appliances.Ĭopper is a non-corrosive material, making it the ideal wiring material. For this reason, it’s commonly used in many household cables. Here’s a brief overview of both copper and aluminum wires! What is Copper Wire?Ĭopper wire, which has a reddish color, is one of the best wires for electrical conductivity.
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