How to Use AlumiConn Connectors for Aluminum Wire

AlumiConn connectors are the standard solution for safely connecting aluminum wire to copper wire or to devices rated for copper only. If your Ontario home has aluminum branch circuit wiring — common in homes built between the mid-1960s and mid-1970s — every connection point where aluminum meets copper or a copper-rated device needs to be made with an approved connector. AlumiConn connectors (manufactured by King Innovation and CSA-approved for use in Canada) are the most widely specified product for this application, and installing them correctly requires following a specific sequence that most hardware store instructions do not fully explain.

How to Use AlumiConn Connectors for Aluminum Wire

This guide covers the correct procedure for installing AlumiConn connectors to pigtail aluminum branch circuit wiring to a short copper conductor. In Ontario, this work requires an ESA permit and must be performed by or supervised by an ESA-licensed electrician.

Step-by-Step Installation Procedure

• Step 1: Strip approximately 3/4 inch of insulation from the aluminum wire using a wire stripper.
• Step 2: Apply anti-oxidant compound (Noalox or euqvalent) to the stripped aluminum conductor. Required by the OESC.
• Step 3: Prepare a copper pigtail of the same gauge as the aluminum wire. Strip one end and apply anti-oxidant compound.
• Step 4: Insert the aluminum and copper conductors each into their own port in the AlumiConn connector.
• Step 5: Torque each set screw to 20 in-lb using a torque screwdriver. Do not estimate by feel.
• Step 6: Tug each conductor to verify firm hold.
• Step 7: Connect the free copper pigtail end to the device terminal using standard copper methods.

Contact Us

Need aluminum wiring remediation with AlumiConn connectors in your GTA home? Our ESA-licensed electricians carry out permitted, inspected remediations. Call us at 416-838-9006.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp