Debate: stick with copper or switch to aluminum for service feeders

Went back and forth with my partner last Thursday after a job in Akron where aluminum would've saved us $180 on a 200 amp residential service. He swears by copper for reliability and ease, but the price difference makes me wonder if aluminum is fine for most houses these days. What's your take on using aluminum vs copper for main feeders in residential work?

2 comments

2 Comments

rileynelson9d ago

I get where your partner's coming from on copper being reliable, but I see it different for most residential work. Aluminum feeders have come a long way if you use the right lugs and anti-oxidant compound, and for 200 amp services the savings add up quick. Unless you're dealing with high moisture or frequent load fluctuations, aluminum's fine for the average house. I get where your partner's coming from on copper being reliable, but I see it different for most residential work. Aluminum feeders have come a long way if you use the right lugs and anti-oxidant compound, and for 200 amp services the savings add up quick. Unless you're dealing with high moisture or frequent load fluctuations, aluminum's fine for the average house.

juliag109d agoOG Member

And honestly, @rileynelson, I've swapped out a few copper jobs where homeowners just couldn't stomach the price tag... aluminum with proper prep has held up fine for years now. The trick is scrubbing those aluminum lugs down good and slathering on that compound like it's going out of style. If you're in a dry climate like most of us, it's really a no-brainer for the savings.