Most Common Electrical Problems Found by Home Inspectors
Home inspectors are thorough when checking the electrical wires that enter a house.
The electrical system in a home is a complicated part of the house. When something goes wrong with it, homeowners must call an electrician for help with repairs.
However, electrical systems can also develop hidden problems which are hard to detect. However, home inspectors are well-trained to look for any problem, from plumbing, flooring, and roofing to foundations and electrical wiring. They have experience in finding most electrical problems.
Knowing the most common electrical issues is good so that homeowners can hire an electrician to resolve them before a home inspection.
Obstructed entrance wire
Home inspectors are thorough when checking the electrical wires that enter a house. They want the main lines to have a safe, clear, and unobstructed path free from dangerous tree branches. Another important aspect is to have a drip loop on the entrance wires. These drip loops allow water to drip to the ground instead of running into the home, causing rust at the service panel.
Outdated knob and tube wiring
Many updates have been made to electrical codes in the last decade, leading to significant problems. One example is when an electrician updates a home’s wiring but connects the old wiring with the new, creating a significant fire hazard. If an inspector finds this to be the case in a home, the homeowner needs to have repairs made.
Faulty GFCI outlets
Simply put, a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet is a safety device designed to protect against electrical shocks. They must be installed in all places with a water source near electricity. A well-equipped house has GFCI outlets in garages, bathrooms, kitchens, and all service panels. GFCI outlets are easily recognizable; they come equipped with two buttons—one to “set” and one to “reset” the outlet. Homeowners should replace any inoperable GFCI outlets.
Contact a local, licensed electrician for all electrical needs.
ACT Electric is a full-service residential and commercial electrical contractor company specializing in electrical installation, repairs, and upgrades, electrical troubleshooting, electrical remodeling, electrical home inspection, and electrical retrofitting. We always prioritize customer comfort and safety. Give us a call at (480) 986-1722 today!
