Are the new outlets suitable for aluminum wires?
by
Maggie F
Hi. I’m told that the plugs sold nowadays can be used for both copper and aluminum wires. I don’t know who to believe. Please help me with this issue.
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There are two ways to do it:
Use CO/ALR switches/receptacles: these are specifically designed for aluminum wire. They have "CO/ALR" stamped on them somewhere. When you connect the wire, use a paste like Noalox (box stores sell it).
Use a pigtail connection: Sometimes it is not possible to find CO/ALR switches with the function or style you need. You can use a copper wire to connect to the switch itself as usual, and then a #63 wire connector to connect the copper wire to the aluminum one
Home Depot sells a product called Nolax specifically made for aluminum wires.
https://www.homedepot.com/p/Ideal-NOALOX-4-oz-Anti-Oxidant-Compound-30-026/202276208