Good morning to all my fellows, this is Patrick with American Home Inspectors. https://www.americanhomeinspectors.net/
Working on master class homework: GFCI and electric receptacles.
Upon inspection of the electrical outlets in the half bath. I observed a defect at the GFCI in the bathroom. It was improperly wired. The hot and neutral wires are reversed. This has the potential to be a hazard and cause a fire. Evaluation and immediate correction buy a license qualified electrician is recommended.
Thank you so much for the feedback, the article was very helpful Neil and gave me two great scenarios under my belt!
And I realize now, moving forward I will use shock hazard rather than fire hazard. Noted. Thank you!
FYI- The GFCI device can still function with reverse polarity or open ground.
If the Receptacle tested open ground and has a sticker attached to it stating “NO EQUIPMENT GROUND” it is not a defect, without the sticker, it is.
I would keep from stating the receptacle itself was improperly wired, as it could be a problem upstream.
That must be a very old GFCI receptacle because all of ones manufactured in the last decade or so will not energize if they’re wired with the hot and neutral reversed.
3 Likes
ndegaris
(Neil DeGaris, CMI KY License # 102167)
#8
I have a few of the Red & Black buttons left in my house, from the mid 90’s, not sure if they still make them or not.
