What to look for when checking for aluminum wiring?

Aluminum wiring primarily affects housing built from 1965 to 1973, but it also can be present in additions and remodeled sections of older homes if the work was done during these years. The first thing to look for during your snooping is the word “aluminum” printed or embossed on the plastic sheathing of the electrical cable. If the cable isn’t observable in an attic space or a basement ceiling, look in the service panel. Remove the cover plates and look at individual switches and receptacles to see whether the wire ends are copper- or silver-colored.