EnglishViews: 222 Author: Robert Publish Time: 2025-03-11 Origin: Site
Content Menu
● Understanding Aluminum Wiring in Subpanels
● Brevard County Electrical Code Compliance
>> 2. Grounding and Neutral Separation:
● Safety Measures for Aluminum Wiring
● Insurance and Resale Challenges
● Step-by-Step Subpanel Installation with Aluminum Wiring
● Common Code Violations to Avoid
>> 1. What is the minimum aluminum wire size for a subpanel in Brevard County?
>> 2. Can I connect aluminum wires to copper devices?
>> 3. Are permits required for subpanel installations?
>> 4. Does homeowners insurance cover aluminum wiring?
>> 5. How do I secure loose aluminum connections?
Content Menu
Installing or upgrading electrical subpanels requires careful adherence to local building codes and safety standards. For Brevard County residents, understanding the regulations surrounding aluminum wiring is critical, particularly for older homes where aluminum branch circuits were common between 1965 and 1973. Below, we explore the county's stance on aluminum wiring in subpanels, installation best practices, and solutions for maintaining code compliance.
Aluminum wiring is permitted for subpanels in Brevard County provided it meets specific safety and installation criteria. Key considerations include:
- Wire Gauge Requirements: Aluminum feeders must be at least #2 AWG for subpanel connections. Smaller gauges are prohibited for branch circuits.
- Termination Compatibility: All receptacles, switches, and connectors must be rated for aluminum (marked CO/ALR or AL-CU).
- Torque Specifications: Proper torque application during installation prevents loose connections, a common cause of overheating.
Brevard County follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) with local amendments. Critical regulations include:
Aluminum feeders must comply with NEC Article 310.15(B)(16). For example, a 100-amp subpanel requires #2 AWG aluminum SER cable (2-2-2-4 configuration).
Subpanels must have isolated neutral and ground bus bars. A separate grounding rod is not required if the subpanel is in the same building.
Electrical work requires a permit from the Brevard County Building Department. Licensed contractors must submit plans, including an electrical riser diagram.
Video Tutorial:
While aluminum is cost-effective for large feeders, improper installation poses fire risks. Mitigation strategies include:
- Antioxidant Paste: Apply to terminals to prevent oxidation.
- Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCI): Required for new circuits in kitchens, bathrooms, and bedrooms.
- Tamper-Resistant Outlets: Mandatory for all new installations.
Homes with aluminum wiring often face higher insurance premiums or denial of coverage. Solutions include:
- Electrician Certification: Have a licensed electrician inspect and certify the system.
- Copalum Crimping: Permanently bonds copper pigtails to aluminum wires, reducing fire risks.
Video Tutorial:
1. Shut Off Main Power: Deactivate the main breaker before working.
2. Mount Subpanel: Position at least 1 foot from the main panel.
3. Run Feeder Cable: Use #2 AWG aluminum SER cable.
4. Terminate Wires:
- Connect hots to the main breaker.
- Attach neutral and ground to isolated bus bars.
5. Torque Connections: Follow manufacturer specifications (typically 25–35 lb-in).
Video Tutorial:
- Mixed Metals: Never connect aluminum directly to copper without rated connectors.
- Undersized Wires: #2 aluminum is the minimum for feeders.
- Missing AFCI/GFCI: Required in wet locations and living areas.
Brevard County permits aluminum wiring in subpanels if installed to NEC standards and local amendments. Key steps include using appropriate gauges, certified connectors, and professional inspections. While aluminum offers cost savings, adherence to safety protocols is non-negotiable to prevent hazards.
AWG aluminum is required for feeder connections. Smaller gauges are prohibited.
Only if using CO/ALR-rated outlets or switches. Direct connections without compatibility may void insurance.
Yes. Submit an electrical permit application with Brevard County's Building Department.
Many insurers require certification or upgrades. Copalum crimping or full rewiring may be necessary.
Retorque terminals to manufacturer specs and apply antioxidant paste annually.
[1] https://forum.nachi.org/t/new-twist-on-aluminium-wiring/56004
[2] http://brevardcounty.elaws.us/code/coor_ch22_artiii_div1_subdivi_sec22-278
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/AskElectricians/comments/1hilyw1/is_it_acceptable_to_wire_a_sub_panel_using/
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVqQ7feTPck
[5] https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/252826/what-wire-to-use-from-main-panel-to-subpanel
[6] https://diy.stackexchange.com/questions/241616/aluminum-wire-restrictions
[7] https://sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?250478-New-shop-running-wire-to-a-sub-panel
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gfaw-XAvn4M
[9] https://expresselectricalservices.com/diy-guide-how-to-wire-a-sub-panel/
[10] https://www.productsforautomation.com/saginaw-13x6-aluminum-sub-panel-p/sce-14p8al.htm
[11] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uThjbVDcpxo
[12] https://www.brevardfl.gov/PlanningAndDevelopment/BuildingPermits/PermitsResidential/ResidentialElectrical
[13] https://www.floridabuilding.org/fbc/commission/FBC_0411/Electrical_TAC/Aluminum_Wiring.pdf
[14] https://www.fldoe.org/core/fileparse.php/7738/urlt/0075748-2010handbookerrata.pdf
[15] https://mcclibraryfunctions.azurewebsites.us/api/munidocDownload/31156/2c2317ca747b1/pdf?forceDownload=true
[16] https://remote.cityofcapecanaveral.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=150549&dbid=0&repo=CC-LF
[17] https://library.municode.com/fl/brevard_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=COORBRCOFLVOII_CH62LADERE_ARTVIZORE_DIV7COFA_SDIIPELEGEDEST_S62-2425COSMWIFALO
[18] https://www.garagejournal.com/forum/threads/aluminum-wire-for-subpanel.439079/
[19] https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/aluminium-wires
