10 Shocking Wiring Dangers That Could Set Your Home on Fire!

7. Aluminum Wiring

What It Means: The wiring in your home is made of aluminum, a material used in the 1960s and '70s as a cheaper alternative to copper, but it is no longer considered safe.

Code Violation? No; it's "grandfathered in."

Danger Level: High. Aluminum corrodes when it comes into contact with copper, causing connections to loosen, which can lead to arcing and potential fires.

Solution: Retrofit each copper/aluminum connection in light fixtures with a dielectric wire nut approved for aluminum wiring. These nuts contain a special grease that prevents corrosion while ensuring conductivity. Also, ensure that any replacement switches and receptacles are labeled as AL-compatible.