Help with this type of wiring

This type of wire is in a home known to be done by a very reputable builder. These wires look different and I could not see any other markings on the insulation. Thoughts?

You have some aluminum wiring there that should be reported on.

And, welcome to our forum, Joshua…enjoy. :+1:

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That’s what i thought but it really surprised me in this house. I wanted to make sure before I mentioned it.
Thanks.

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Was this new construction? When was it built?

2007
No additions or improvements since.

I am not saying not to call it out. But, there is this: (GA 2020) And I am pretty sure this goes back to your 2007 build.
image

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Would one carry an aluminum alloy tester, then? :man_shrugging:

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Its most likely is tinned copper.

Do you have more pictures of this panel, especially of the sheathing where the cables enter the enclosure?

I’ve seen variations in the color/richness of copper wiring… not sure I’ve seen it that light but it’s hard to envision single-strand aluminum in a 2007 build. Especially, when there’s other copper nearby. As in, why would the electrician be using two different materials?

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Which makes me question; “is it tinned copper”? I admit, electrical is my weakest link when it come to home inspecting, but if it was solid aluminum neutrals, wouldn’t the gauge be larger than the copper neutrals? Of course only making an assumption based on that pic and not knowing what they are connected too/from.

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It has Thermoplastic insulation so it is likley not tinned copper. Do you have other photo’s that show more of the panel like the terminations on the circuit breakers for comparison to the neutrals?

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That is way too new to be tinned copper. The insulation is also not rubber.

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Always appreciate your tips and insight for my own learning! :+1:

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I suppose there’s a regional component here but in Oregon I haven’t seen tinned copper in any house built after about 1960. And, no single-strand aluminum after about 1980.

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And the reason I hesitate on trying to make a call on it unless it’s obvious. If in serious question, I will defer to the experts.

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Just a thought. Copper prices doubled 2006, (2007 build could have started in 2006)

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The house is probably too old for it to be copper clad aluminum and that still doesn’t account for the color shift. If it was CCA, it should be 10 amps and limited to lighting only.

3 or 4 years ago I inspected a new construction with all aluminum wiring. 2007 solid aluminum wiring is something to note, but not a defect to report.

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As required by most SOP’s.