Due to the higher cost of copper, has anyone here resorted to using aluminum wire for their GEC? I have been running into several jobs where the incoming water line is at the furthest point in the home away from the panel. Al would be 1/4th the cost, but not sure how it would hold up over time with the damp conditions associated with unfinished basements and oxidation at the fitting termination.
AL/ GEC
- Thread starter nizak
- Start date
- Status
buzzbar
Senior Member
- Location
- Olympia, WA
- Occupation
- Electrical Contractor
I just replaced a bonding wire on a large service where the 2/0 CU bonding wire was stolen. AL was much cheaper, of course.
You still have to use CU for the ground rods though.
You still have to use CU for the ground rods though.
John120/240
Senior Member
- Location
- Olathe, Kansas
Aluminum wire should perform adequately over time without any ill affects. IMO
Proper terminations would be required, I have always used NoLox. Do not allow bare Al GEC
to come in contact with bare earth. Keep GEC at least is it 12" or 18" above grade.
Proper terminations would be required, I have always used NoLox. Do not allow bare Al GEC
to come in contact with bare earth. Keep GEC at least is it 12" or 18" above grade.
- Location
- New Jersey
- Occupation
- Journeyman Electrician
We've been using Al for water pipe GEC's for years. It's more rigid than copper which makes it easier to neatly run exposed.
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