When connecting aluminum wire and copper wire together what steps are required to make it safe?
In my opinion it’s never safe to use aluminum wire. Aluminum has the peculiar property of instantly oxidizing. Its surface is always oxidized. Oxide = resistance — Resistance = heat — Heat = fire. I’ve oversimplified this but you should get the idea. If there is no other alternative make the connection by twisting the copper and aluminum as tightly as possible and make the twist as long as is practical. Insulate the connection(s) and cross your fingers.
