What does CU mean on an outlet?

What does CU mean on an outlet?

Use Solid Copper or CU-Clad Wire Only The label tells you what types of wire the switch can be attached to. By default, most switches are intended for use on solid copper or copper-clad aluminum wire (CU is the chemical symbol for copper).

Is it OK to mix copper and aluminum wiring?

Aluminum and Copper Wiring Together As long as the two are kept separate, this is not an issue. However, if copper and aluminum wiring are joined together using a simple twist-on splice, that presents an extra hazard because of their differing diameters and differing rates of expansion when heated and cooled.

How can I tell if my outlet is aluminum?

Typically, receptacles that are approved for aluminum wiring will be stamped CO/ALR, CU-AL or AL-CU indicating they can be used for both copper and aluminum. Newer Decor switches and outlets (the new designer look flat outlets and switches) are not aluminum rated.

What CU means?

see you
cu. written abbreviation for see you: used when saying goodbye at the end of an email or text message to a friend. SMART Vocabulary: related words and phrases. Internet, email and texting conventions.

Is copper a wire?

As you can see, copper is the preferred metal for electrical wires for several reasons. It has high electrical conductive; it’s inexpensive; it’s ductile; and it’s thermal resistant. This makes is the universally accepted standard for the manufacturing of electrical wires.

When did Canada ban aluminum wiring?

1970s
Aluminum wiring was outlawed in Canada in the late 1970s, because it expands and contracts more than copper wire, which leads to loose connections, arcing, melting and ultimately fire.

What color is the Cu wire?

USA Color Coding (Multiphase)

Why CU is a good conductor?

The reason copper is a good conductor of electricity is that it has a good amount of free electrons which can conduct electricity.

What does Cu Al mean on electrical wiring?

Electrical devices marked CU-AL or AL-CU The CU-AL and AL-CU markings were applied by the wiring device manufacturers at their option, without any special testing for compatibility with Aluminum Wire. This was allowed (by UL) until about 1972.

Can you use copper outlets for aluminum wiring?

When buying replacement electrical outlets for aluminum wiring, ensure that all are compatible. Usually, receptacles approved for aluminum wiring will get stamped CO/ALR, CU-AL, or AL-CU, indicating they may get used for both copper and aluminum.

What is the UL Al-Cu marking on receptacles?

In about 1974 or so UL published a pamphlet on aluminum wiring which warned that the wiring devices with the “Al-Cu” marking should not be used with aluminum wire. In about 1972, UL and the wiring device manufacturers agreed on a test standard for receptacles for use with Aluminum Wire.

Do I need CO/ALR switches and outlets for aluminum wiring?

With a wide variety of color, wiring options and other features. CO/ALR switches and outlets are required anywhere aluminum wiring has been installed. You will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader to view PDF documents.