Electrical inspectors commonly discover these common problems during home inspections. These issues include open junction boxes, wires with mismatched amperage, lack of sheaths, and inadequate protection or grounding. Other common electrical problems include overloaded power bars and extension cords. These are both fire hazards. Ultimately, these failures must be corrected before they become major issues. For example, if an extension cord is exposed to moisture, the potential for fire is high.
How Do You Check An Electrical Outlet For Safety
During the inspection, electricians check outlets and wall outlets for proper sizing and function. They also check smoke detectors and GFCI protection. They look for electrical hazards within a dwelling, such as dangling wires or missing switch plates. Additionally, they check to see if all breakers are properly matched and grounded. Incorrectly labeled breakers or wires may indicate a fire hazard.
People who attempt to wire their commercial establishments or their homes often make mistakes and use rudimentary electrical skills. This type of wiring creates a serious risk of shock. Make sure you have a professional electrician to complete the wiring process to ensure safety. The inspector can also recommend the best method to ground your circuits and keep them safe. So, while home inspections are vital, it’s also important to keep these common electrical inspection failures in mind.
Open circuits may allow rodents or debris to enter and cause electrical shock or fire. Fortunately, there are inexpensive filler plates that cover open outlets. But make sure you follow your inspector’s requirements. If you do not, you could end up with a failed inspection. So, be sure to address these common electrical inspection failures as soon as you can! If you’re worried about failing to pass an inspection, don’t let yourself be a victim of one!
Why Electrical Wiring Can Cause Fire
Wires may also be overlooked. Unshielded wires could result in an electrical fire. In addition, open splices can be dangerous, so electricians recommend replacing them as soon as possible. Likewise, exposed wires may be a safety issue in certain locations, but they’re also prone to mechanical damage. So, pay attention to the details during the electrical inspection. You’ll save yourself time and money in the long run by addressing these issues as quickly as possible.
A good rule of thumb for electrical safety is to schedule an inspection at least once a year. While a licensed electrician can help you schedule your inspection, you can perform some simple preventive maintenance yourself to help you avoid common electrical inspection failures. For example, make sure all plugs fit snugly into the outlets, and check for strange sounds or smells coming from outlets. If possible, only plug appliances into outlets with GFCI protection, and be sure to label circuit breakers and electrical panels with service dates.
Overloaded circuit breakers also pose a safety risk checklist. This problem can arise from multiple large appliances running simultaneously. These overloaded circuit breakers can lead to loose connections, which can cause fires or arcs. Fortunately, these problems can be easily rectified by updating your electrical panel. It’s a good idea to hire a licensed electrician for your home inspection, as they can identify any potential problems. So, when it comes to electrical safety, tripping breakers is the most common electrical failure.
