Is there a Dimmer Switch Rated for CU/AL Type Wire?

Electrical Question from Ryan about Light Switch Wiring

Received from Ryan a Homeowner in Nashua, NH

Question: I have a house that was built in 1968 and has Aluminum wiring. All of the switches and outlets are approved CU/AL rated. We have a three way switch in the dining room and would like to put a dimmer in but cannot find any dimmers that are CU/AL approved. First is this even possible? Second do they make such a switch? If yes where would I get one?

Thank you.

Additional Comments: Looks like a good website.

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question.
Hi Ryan – You will not find a dimmer switch rated for CU/AL Wire because most all dimmer switches come pre-wired  with copper wire leads.  You may connect the aluminum wire to the copper leads of the dimmer switch as long as you use a wire connector that is rated for CU/AL type wire connections.

The Following links will assist you with your electrical question:

For more information about Light Switch Wiring
Light Switch Wiring

This link is helpful as a Homeowner
Do-It-Yourself Electrical

Make sure not to miss these Resources for: How-To-Pictures
Home Electrical Projects

Be Careful and Be Safe – Never Work on Energized Circuits!

For Best Results Consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor.
Locate An Electrical Contractor in Your Area

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! « Here's How to Do It: Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book Great for any Home Wiring Project. Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring Perfect for Homeowners, Students, Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians Includes: Wiring GFCI Outlets Wiring Home Electric Circuits 120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits Wiring Light Switches Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring ....and much more.

Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

More articles about Electrical and Home Electrical Wiring:
« Previous	Next »
My Florescent Light Fixtures are Not Working	Can I run Another Switch Off of the Existing Switch to Control the Ceiling Fan?

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs Please Note: Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects: Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor. Electrical Tools Required: Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter. Estimated Time: Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area. Precaution: Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring. Important: Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.

STAY CONNECTED

ELECTRICAL NEWS UPDATES