![]() Aluminum costs much less than copper-clad and copper wires. Aluminum copper-clad is better but does cost more than aluminum wiring. Aluminum conductors are cheaper to produce compared to copper conductors. Budget-Friendly: Aluminum wire is preferred due to its lower cost.The two main advantages of using aluminum or copper are that aluminum wiring costs less and is lightweight, making installation easier. Distance: Copper conductors can be used over longer distances due to their highly conductive properties and heat resistance.Īdvantages of Aluminum Wiring over Copper.Malleability: Because copper is highly conductive, the wire strands are thinner, making the wire more malleable without breaking.Patina forms by oxidation however, do not affect the conductivity. Patina is a greenish-tarnish that changes the outer color of copper. Corrosion Resistant: Copper is resistant to corrosion.Copper wire does not expand and contract like aluminum, so the cables remain tight on lugs. Heat Resistant: The copper wire’s conductive properties make the wire more heat resistant than aluminum.Copper wire is about half the diameter of aluminum wire for the same conductivity. Copper can handle a higher electrical load, allowing you to use a smaller gauge wire. Conductivity: Copper wire is a highly conductive metal, second only to silver.Copper wiring has many benefits, including: ![]() Licensed electricians and homeowners alike prefer copper wiring, particularly for branch circuits. Advantages of Copper Wiring over Aluminum Copper-clad aluminum doesn’t require an antioxidant coating at the connection terminals.Īluminum wiring appeals widely because it costs less, is lightweight, and is more flexible than copper, even though copper is considered a better conductor. Aluminum wiring requires a larger diameter wire because it has a lower conductivity than copper.Īluminum wiring requires an antioxidant coating at the connection terminals to resist corrosion. You’ll need #4/0 AWG 200 amp wire size for aluminum or copper-clad aluminum wiring. Copper has high conductivity, won’t rust, and is oxidation-resistant. For copper conductors, you’ll need a #2/0 AWG copper wire commonly used for electrical wiring because it is more heat resistant than aluminum. ![]()
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