Here are 4 reasons aluminum wiring is no longer used for wiring homes.
1. Aluminum is a much softer metal than copper and is prone to damage.
2. When current flows through aluminum the metal heats up and causes expansion and contraction that can creating a poor connection and increasing the chances of a unsafe condition.
3. Aluminum oxide (rust) is a bad conductor of electricity.
4. There are very few devices (Receptacles, switches, lights) that are rated to be connected to aluminum. When aluminum is connected to metals that are not rated to be connected to aluminum hazardous conditions can be created.
The most permanent method to deal with aluminum is to replace it with new copper wiring. This method is best done while undergoing major renovations. In most cases this is expensive and impractical.
Aluminum rated connectors paired with antioxidant is an insurance approved method. Every electrical connection at every plug, switch, light and electrical panel is done by a qualified electrician. This is a great opportunity to update receptacles and switches. Every aluminum remediation is accompanied with a letter for insurance purposes or any future home owners.