Electrical Issues

electrical issues

Homeowners should be fully aware of four common electrical issues that can pose safety risks and require attention.

ALUMINUM WIRING

FPE BREAKERS

KNOB AND TUBE WIRING

UNGROUNDED OUTLETS

POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL PROBLEMS

Here are the most common electrical issues homeowners should be aware of:

Overloaded Outlets or Outlet Multipliers:

Plugging too many appliances into a single outlet may indicate your home lacks the necessary number of outlets. According to the National Electrical Code, outlets should be spaced every 12 feet of running wall space, or at least one on each wall in an average 10-by-12-foot room. In kitchens, outlets are typically required every four feet along the countertop.

Flickering or Dimming Lights:

Lights that flicker or dim could signal loose connections, overloaded circuits, improper wiring, or even arcing and sparking within the walls. These issues should be promptly inspected by an electrician.

Hot or Discolored Receptacles, Switch Plates, Cords, or Plugs:

If you can’t keep your hand on a receptacle, switch plate, cord, or plug for more than five seconds, it may indicate an overload or a malfunctioning device. Heat discoloration is a sign of a potentially hazardous issue that requires immediate attention.

TV Screen or Computer Monitor Disturbance:

If your TV screen or computer monitor shrinks, wavers, or flickers when a large appliance turns on, it could mean the circuit is overloaded or your home’s electrical system requires additional capacity.

Unusual Smells or Sounds:

A burning metal or plastic smell could indicate a loose connection, a malfunctioning switch or light fixture, overheating components, arcing, or sparking inside the walls. If you hear buzzing or cracking sounds or detect a burning plastic odor near the electrical panel, contact a licensed electrician immediately for an inspection.

CLICK 'GOOGLE PHOTOS' TO VIEW ELECTRICAL ISSUES I'VE ENCOUNTERED

Share:

Here is what my clients have to say about my home inspection services:

Press F5 (on your keyboard) for additional testimonials

Dave had an impressive website that seemed to be too thorough to be anything but genuine. The thing that seemed to sell me was that he says right on his website that you may pay a little more for his service, but that his quality is higher. So I decided to give him a try even though I had no reference from another person hoping for someone of top quality. I was not disappointed. He was at the home early as promised and had done an inspection of the exterior and was writing up notes so that when I arrived, he walked me through the exterior first. Even with his early arrival, we were still there for about 3 hours looking through every little corner and cubby. He would occasionally stop and fill out his inspection forms which were easy to follow and read; he gives you a full folder of his notes that are well organized.

Dave was open to all questions and concerns so every time I saw something that was potentially concerning to me, he would look, give his opinion and often shared other experiences with similar circumstances. He also had a good sense of humor which helped to lighten what can be a stressful experience (having someone pointing out problem items that you didn't see). I would highly recommend Massachusetts Home Inspections.

Michael