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

Buying a home is arguably the most important, exciting and nerve-wracking purchase a person will ever make. This is the reason you need a great home inspector, and Dave Valley is just that. He is empathetic – he understands and appreciates the various emotions a potential home-buyer goes through. Most importantly, Dave provides you with objective information so you can make the most informed decision possible.

It was a pleasure working with Dave – he contains all the qualities that make a great home inspector – he is the consummate professional, prompt, courteous, meticulous in his detail and honest. Dave was reasonably priced – in fact Dave charged me the same amount I spent 10 years earlier on a smaller house and provided a far better work product.

Prompt

I arrived at the house at the agreed upon time on a cold and nasty day, and found Dave outside inspecting the exterior of the home. He was already a half hour into his inspection – I think this exemplifies and is symbolic of the fact that Dave is respectful of his client’s time.

Courteous

Dave was pleasant to deal with, personable and thoughtful not only to his client but also to the buyer’s real estate agent.

Detail-oriented

Dave spent almost four hours in his investigation of a 2,000 square foot house. He answered all my questions and reviewed every observation he had with me. David provided a detailed report, and encouraged me to call and email him to discuss the report and to ask questions.

Conclusion

The highest compliment I can give Dave is to say that I would use him again and will encourage and recommend him to others.

Michael S. Giaimo