Al wiring with gfci

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monster

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The only connector I have found that is listed for Al-Cu is the Ideal Model 65 (purple). I recently installed gfci receptacles over a kitchen counter to replace the original receptacles which were installed with Al conductors cica 1968. Many of the original boxes were shallow. In any case, it was very difficult to get the gfci recptacles to fit in the enclosure even with "Tan" Ideal 341 wire connectors. Anything larger, including the purple connectors would not fit. I spoke with Ideal Corp. Tech. Support. They advised me that this is a common problem, and what is typically done is to use corrosion-resistant compound with a standard connector, which is what I did.
The original installation was Al wire connected to Cu only, non-gfci receptacles. After all of those years, I did not find any significant corrosion, and no sign of overheating. At least we were able to upgrade the installation to the gfci receptacles which I believe is a significant improvement.

{The AHJ has commented that the installation must be done with approved connectors. I don't see how this is possible without removing the gfci receptacles.}

Please comment.
 
I would never, ever have one piece of al wire in my house. I don't trust it for branch circuits. Please tell the homeowner to get a rewire job A.S.A.P. :wink:
 
Another option is the GFCI's that don't have any receptical built in. Whack a couple of 1900's by the panel and put those devices in. A bit cheaper than breakers and doesn't require tearing the walls up.
 
tonyi said:
Another option is the GFCI's that don't have any receptical built in. Whack a couple of 1900's by the panel and put those devices in. A bit cheaper than breakers and doesn't require tearing the walls up.
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Good economical idea :wink: AL wiring was a farse,CU was being scrapped at $1+/lb at the time.while gas was sold for pennies/gal.I have seen both ends of the spectrum fires and nothing at all in regards to AL wiring,Me I would also replace it but some folks just can`t afford it. :D
 
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