Replies

1. 
   Bill_Hartmann | Nov 08, 2001 08:56pm | #1

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   i (copper clad al wiring into inserts and not screwed on the the fixtures though this is not so great).

   I am MUCH more concerned about this.

   If you are talking about the type of outlets where the wire is just pushed into the back and held with a spring tab they are a poor design and may people don't like them. They have a tendancy make a poor connection over time.

   While I am not familar with the copper clad al wiring, I suspect that it will be worse than plan copper in an application like this.

1. 
   xJohn_Sprung | Nov 08, 2001 09:04pm | #2

   *I've found some boxes filled with foam. This is definitely a very bad idea. You want to dissipate heat out of the electrical system, not confine it. Somewhere in the NEC there is some legalese that translates to "No crap in the boxes".Aluminum wire, copper clad or otherwise, is a very bad thing. If it's in conduit, use it to pull in replacement copper. If it's romex, put copper pigtails on it. It's extremely important that this pigtailing is done correctly.-- J.S.

1. 
   Bob_Walker | Nov 09, 2001 12:43am | #3

   *I'm with xJohn on this.Copper clad aluminum is pretty rare, it was only used for a short while. (There happens to be a thread on it in the private ASHI home inspection forum.)Have your system checked out by an electrician.

1. 
   Ron_Teti | Nov 09, 2001 05:38pm | #4

   *Brian,im not sure if I understand the situation. its the expandable foam "inside" the box or "around" the box. If the foam is "around the box I wouldnt be worried about it. Inside the box now thats a different issue and I would be concerned. I would also be concerned about the copper clad aluminum wire place into inserts rather than screws. I would suggest contactng a licensed electrician about that. There are ways to "improve" installation method of the aluminum wire.

1. 
   Kurt_Allen | Nov 09, 2001 08:20pm | #5

   *Brian - the polyurethane foam that is inside the box constitutes a fire hazard and should be removed as soon as possible. It is OK to put the foam around the outside of the box, but not inside. The foam will burn if exposed to sparks, flame, or temperatures above 240F.Kurt AllenTech Support ManagerDow Chemical - NASH(manufacturers of Great Stuff foam sealant)

2. 
   Brian_Lengel | Nov 09, 2001 08:20pm | #6

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   I'm in a house now with that expandable foam was used in the outlet boxes on outside walls. Is this dangerous/fire hazard? (copper clad al wiring into inserts and not screwed on the the fixtures though this is not so great). Should I chip away the dried foam or leave it to insulate? Thanks, Brian Lengel