What are some items looked at in a home electrical systems inspection?
What are some items looked at in a home electrical systems inspection?*
Home inspections are very detailed to ensure that the house you are selling is of good quality, safe for the potential buyer, and has no expensive maintenance issues. Although home inspectors are trained to identify any problems, they may recommend that the buyer call an electrician to inspect their home.
Your home's electrical system is an important factor in your family's safety - and whoever buys your home. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, electrical or home lighting switches are the fourth leading cause of home fires. We include the complete inspection of electrical systems as part of our residential home inspection package.
What is included in a Home System Inspection?
Our certified home electrical inspectors will thoroughly review each portion of the residential system and compile a report based on several factors. This report is compiled to give prospective buyers a clear overview of the strengths and weaknesses of the electrical system.
- Service panels and sub-panels (Circuit breakers or Fuse boxes):
They usually remove the cover to ensure it is not sparking or overheating inside the panel. The breakers can be replaced if needed.
- Store (or container): They use a handheld device, a multimeter, to check the location and check for voltage and ground wires.
- Switches: They thoroughly ensure that all switches are functional and outline any that need to be replaced.
- GFCI Circuits and Arc-Fault Circuit Interrupters (AFCIs): Lack of GFCIs, AFCIs (circuit breakers when exposed to electricity), or other "over-protection devices".
- Types of cords: Cords are examined to see if they are in good condition and quality. The material they are comprised of is also indicated to the buyer.
What are the most common housing electrical problems?
The most common electrical problems discovered by home inspectors during a home inspection are:
1) Exposed Wires and pieces: Wires are welded or held together rather than in a junction box or the assembly box might be left open, thus exposing the wires.
2) The Three Plugs (Outlets): Having a fixed point can prevent electric shock. Homes built before the early 1960s usually have a two-wire system, although there is a three-way connector on the groundless, exhaust
3) Double circuit breaker: This means that two or more strong (or "hot") wires run on a single circuit breaker. It is often seen in older homes or large renovations.
4) Reversed polarity: This means that the heat, neutral, and ground positions of the plug are somehow mixed. This can damage the electrical wiring in the area or cause shock.
5) Improperly Adjusted Electrical Panels: Include several changes that could lead to signs such as switching or intermittent outlets, thermal ceilings, and light fixtures.
6) No Knockouts on Panels: Circular or rectangular shape not inside the electrical panel. Children often tend to stick things inside, which can cause shocks.
7) Knock and Tube Wiring: Sometimes called KT, which is a first-generation power cord. Usually in homes built between the 1900s and 1940s. It does not use ground wire and has no protection in the event of a hazard.
By booking your inspection today, you can ensure that your electrical system is operating safely at maximum efficiency! Reach out to our team now!
A Home Inspection Frequently Asked Question
*Disclaimer: This article has been written by a third party and permission has been granted to Charlottetown Home Inspections to publish the article on this website. As such, the article is provided for general information and educational purposes only, and does not constitute advice. Charlottetown Home Inspections cannot vouch for the accuracy or completeness of the information. The reader is encouraged to do his or her own due diligence and additional research, and to speak to a professional home inspector for the most up to date, accurate and reliable information.
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