Got a call for a panel upgrade and had to choose between aluminum and copper feeders

This was a 200 amp service upgrade in an older home, built in the 70s. The existing feeders were aluminum, and I had to pick between running new aluminum or switching the whole run to copper. The price difference was big, about $400 more for the copper. I went with the aluminum, but I made sure to use the right paste on the lugs and torqued them down to spec with my meter. It's been six months now, and I just did a follow-up check. No signs of heat, everything is tight. I know some guys swear by copper only, but with the right install, the aluminum has been solid. Has anyone else had a long-term service call on a newer aluminum install that changed their mind?

2 comments

2 Comments

schmidt.troy23h ago

You said you torqued them down to spec with your meter. Torque wrenches are the right tool for that job, not a multimeter. The paste and proper torque are key, but using the correct tool is part of a solid install too.

caseyfox21h ago

My buddy used a crescent wrench once, same vibes.