Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

DIY & Home Improvement

John1956PA

(5,118 posts)

3. The worst scenario regarding replacing the switch would be running into aluminum wiring.

Reply to Beartracks (Original post)

Wed May 13, 2026, 08:25 PM

17 hrs ago

It unlikely that you will run into aluminum wiring, since it was used only briefly in the 1970s. Over 99% of the wiring found in residences and apartments is made of copper.

Edit history

Please sign in to view edit histories.

Recommendations

0 members have recommended this reply (displayed in chronological order):

7 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

I have a floppy lightswitch! (And no, this is not a personal problem.) [View all] Beartracks 18 hrs ago OP

Not sure buy I'd buy commercial grade replacements. SheltieLover 18 hrs ago #1

Happens all the time. OAITW r.2.0 18 hrs ago #2

I'm a chickenshit. chicoescuela 17 hrs ago #5

A couple of weeks ago, I had to replace an outdoor light fixture. OAITW r.2.0 23 min ago #7

The worst scenario regarding replacing the switch would be running into aluminum wiring. John1956PA 17 hrs ago #3

Please replace. Janky switches can arc and cause fires if the contacts are not solidly made. usonian 17 hrs ago #4

1: it's a broken switch, not loose wires, definitely ret5hd 17 hrs ago #6