Advantages of Aluminum Wiring
Due to its lightweight nature, aluminium is fairly malleable and easy to work with. The lightweight nature of aluminium is beneficial when wiring is to be done over long distances as it makes the job less rigorous. Aluminium also reduces corona, an electric discharge associated with high power transmissions.
When it comes to cost, aluminium is more affordable than copper wire. With aluminium, you will require about half the amount you would need if copper wire were used instead. When extensive wiring needs to be done in your home, the difference between the two materials can give you significant savings.
Disadvantages
If not installed properly, aluminium wiring can raise the risk of house fires. When aluminium wire warms, it expands and when it cools, it contracts. The tightness of the wiring decreases with each progressive warm-cool cycle experienced. These loose connections can cause sparking which may result in fires. Wires progressively heat up and could even melt surrounding insulation and fixtures, triggering a fire.
Aluminium wires require higher maintenance than copper wiring. This is partly due to the high wear and tear rate as well as the greater risk of fire. For example, aluminium also undergoes corrosion when it encounters certain metal compounds, and this oxidization gives the connection increased resistance. This adds to overall home maintenance costs.
Advantages of Copper Wiring
Copper has one of the highest electrical conductivity rates among metals, which allows it to be soldered with ease. It also makes it possible for smaller conductors to be used to transmit power loads. Smaller conductors are easier to transport and install, and they cost less, which helps manage wiring costs. Copper doesn’t undergo the same extreme expansion and contraction cycles as aluminium so it is a more stable material to use.
Due to its high ductile properties, copper can be formed into very fine wire, making it more versatile. Copper has a high tensile strength as well, so it can undergo extreme stress but show minimal signs of wear and tear. This makes the wiring more durable than aluminium. Due to its great resilience, high durability, low maintenance, and high performance, copper wiring also adds to home value.
Disadvantages
Copper wire costs much more than aluminium, so when extensive wiring is necessary, the overall costs may prove to be prohibitive. Copper is also heavier which can add to the difficulty in wiring. More supports are required to secure the heavier wire in place, which also adds to the overall cost.
