What should be done about aluminum wiring in a house, and does it need to be replaced?

• <div><p>Aluminum wiring can pose a fire risk as it can overheat, expand, and contract, leading to failing splices and loose connections. If your home has aluminum wiring, it requires careful maintenance and potential safety upgrades. The first step is to hire a licensed electrician to conduct a thorough inspection.</p><p>A complete replacement with copper wire is the safest option but can be very expensive and is not always necessary. Other safety measures and upgrades include:</p><ul><li><p><b>Copper Pigtailing:</b> A more budget-friendly option where a short section of copper wire is added to each end of the aluminum wire. This is only appropriate for certain homes.</p></li><li><p><b>Aluminum-Compatible Outlets:</b> Installing outlets specifically designed for use with aluminum wiring.</p></li><li><p><b>Anti-Oxidant Paste:</b> Applying this paste to connections to prevent oxidation.</p></li></ul><p>Consulting with a qualified electrician is essential to assess the condition of your wiring and determine the most appropriate updates to meet current safety standards.</p></div>

Can you save money with electrical upgrades?

• <div><p>Upgrading your electrical system can save you money on your monthly utility bills by powering your home more efficiently. Electrification nonprofit Rewiring America estimates that a household could <a href="https://www.rewiringamerica.org/policy/inflation-reduction-act">save <b>$1,800 per year</b> on energy bills</a> by upgrading to a modern electric heat pump, switching to a heat pump for their water, installing solar panels on the roof, and converting to an electric vehicle.</p></div>

How do I pick a new spot for an outlet?

• <div><p>First, check the current electrical code in your area to ensure spaces you’re considering meet the requirements. After that, your outlet’s location is up to you. If you’re moving it to <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-hide-wires-cords-and-cables-your-home.htm">hide wiring</a>, you may want to move it in a spot that will also be hidden from view, such as behind a media center or table. As long as you meet the spacing guidelines set by electrical codes, you should be able to pick any spot in your home for an outlet. </p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Electrical Service pros in Sterling, OK

*The Angi rating for Electrical Service companies in Sterling, OK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Electrical Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Electrical Service companies in Sterling, OK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Electrical Service needs.

Last update on October 24, 2025

Reviewed in October 2025
Chris and his team did a amazing job🙏🤩. I had bunch of electrical issues in my house. They did everything I asked for 🥰😍. He and his team professional also polite and respectful. I am amazed how they really care for their customer. Did amazing jobs and price I can afford. I am so grateful...
Crossed Wire Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in April 2024
Lynn has spent decades in electrical work , highly knowledgeable in all facets of home repair
Harper's Home Inspection LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
Don actually repaired a leak and electrical outlet, and was happy to go the extra mile so my kitchen is completely gorgeous! Don painted my home a year ago and has just finished the interior! I am so proud of his work!
Giifford Painting
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Reviewed in July 2019
Tonys workers cut the electric line leading to the neighbors house. PSO had to reinstall the line which required digging a long trench around the house. Moreover one of the metal fence posts was left unpainted. Tony and his workers are very courteous. Its just unfortunate that they failed to...
Tony's Home Improvement
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Reviewed in October 2018
I have hired Mike on multiple occasions and he continues to be the person I call when I need things done around the house. The 1st time I used used him it was to tile an outside bar, cooking area out by the pool. He did a PHENOMENAL job! In fact, we turned around and immediately hired him to...
Superior Tile Designs & Renovations LLC/Handyman
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Reviewed in June 2018
Steve was a thrill to work with. He was on time and a complete professional. He worked with my schedule during a kitchen remodel and returned to finish the electrical job once the cabinets were in. I will use him for all of his electrical need in the future and cant wait to work with him...
SJ Electric, LLC
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Reviewed in May 2013
BOTTOM LINE UP FRONT: Overall, I am happy with the service I receive from WSM but I think the overall service experience could of been much better especially from a well respected company like Wichita Snider Mechanical. I give my overall experience a B or B- (on a grade of F to A). Here are...
Wichita-Snider Mechanical Inc
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Reviewed in May 2013
The service technician arrived at 10:00 am. He isolated the fault as a bad bus contact and breaker. He repaired the bus, replaced the breaker and was gone by 10:30. He was courteous, clean cut and professional. <br /> <br />I highly recommend the services provided by Holt Electric. Based on...
HOLT ELECTRIC
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Reviewed in June 2012
On March 2, 2012, I signed a contract for services on a 14ft x 16ft shed with electricity. I gave a $6,000 deposit on a shed that would have cost $9,500 altogether. To date, only the frame is up. I always had to contact the owner before I received a call back from him. It has been almost 4...
Salt & Pepper Fence Co
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Reviewed in April 2012
He is very good and he did all of the electrical work in my house. We would recommend him and continue to use his services in the future for our electrical needs.
PAT ROONEY ELECTRIC INC
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Electrical questions, answered by experts

Aluminum wiring can pose a fire risk as it can overheat, expand, and contract, leading to failing splices and loose connections. If your home has aluminum wiring, it requires careful maintenance and potential safety upgrades. The first step is to hire a licensed electrician to conduct a thorough inspection.

A complete replacement with copper wire is the safest option but can be very expensive and is not always necessary. Other safety measures and upgrades include:

Copper Pigtailing: A more budget-friendly option where a short section of copper wire is added to each end of the aluminum wire. This is only appropriate for certain homes.
Aluminum-Compatible Outlets: Installing outlets specifically designed for use with aluminum wiring.
Anti-Oxidant Paste: Applying this paste to connections to prevent oxidation.

Consulting with a qualified electrician is essential to assess the condition of your wiring and determine the most appropriate updates to meet current safety standards.

Upgrading your electrical system can save you money on your monthly utility bills by powering your home more efficiently. Electrification nonprofit Rewiring America estimates that a household could save $1,800 per year on energy bills by upgrading to a modern electric heat pump, switching to a heat pump for their water, installing solar panels on the roof, and converting to an electric vehicle.

First, check the current electrical code in your area to ensure spaces you’re considering meet the requirements. After that, your outlet’s location is up to you. If you’re moving it to hide wiring, you may want to move it in a spot that will also be hidden from view, such as behind a media center or table. As long as you meet the spacing guidelines set by electrical codes, you should be able to pick any spot in your home for an outlet.

Yes, you can convert a gas water heater to an electric one, but it is a complex process. You will need to ensure there is adequate power for the new electric unit, as they require more power than gas models. The project also involves safely closing off the gas lines and ventilation, and some cities may require a permit for the conversion. The cost can range from $1,500 to $4,100, depending on the installation scope, plumbing and electrical work, and the water heater model. For an accurate quote, it's best to contact a local professional. Also, be aware that your monthly utility bills may increase after the conversion, as natural gas is typically cheaper than electricity.

No, outdoor outlets are not required to be on a separate circuit. However, you should always defer to local electrical codes when making decisions about how to install your new outlet. An experienced local electrician will be able to inform you of all codes and requirements in place at your home.

The Sterling, OK homeowners’ guide to electrical services

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