Wiring a 200 amp panel with aluminum feeders versus copper

I just finished two jobs, one with aluminum and one with copper. The aluminum was cheaper and easier to pull, but I had to spend extra time on the anti-oxidant paste and torque checks. Which do you prefer for a main service upgrade?

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3 Comments

henrycooper6mo ago

Copper's worth the extra cost for the peace of mind alone.

6

dixon.spencer6mo ago

Oh man, henrycooper is right about the peace of mind, but nobody's talking about the noise. Copper is way quieter when the water's running, especially at night. That plastic stuff can make this weird creaking and groaning in the walls that drives you nuts. The quiet is a huge part of that peace of mind for me.

6

the_patricia6mo ago

Yeah, but you gotta check if your pipes are even compatible first.

3