Research & Writing Assignment:
I studied the image with the title of “Wires and Cables Installed Through Studs” Although this image properly showed both when you don’t need and when you do need a metal plate to protect wiring run through holes in wall studs, it only showed it on one side. It should show a scenario on both sides of the two different studs.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Residential Electrical Essay. This photo shows two GFCI outlets, one on each side of the gas range. Looking at the rest of the kitchen outlets I noted no other GFCI outlets, even next to the sink. I tested one of the GFCI’s and found every other outlet over the counters were dead. I then tested the other GFCI and found the remaining outlets were out. This proved all outlets above the counters (12" or larger) were GFCI protected even though the home was built in 1949.
Research & Writing Assignment:
This essay is on a photo found on the Illustration Gallery of Knob & Tubing. If this type of wiring is found during a home inspection it should be noted in your report to your client as something that a Licensed Electrical Contractor should review due to its age and possible dangers that may be found during a throw review of the system.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The electric meter has pulled away from the exterior wall. A previous attempt at repair has been made by strapping meter to wall. Now the strap has broken. This situation is allowing moisture to enter the area and needs to be corrected by a a qualified electrician.
Research & Writing Assignment:
“Electrical Service Panels”
Safety is the most important takeaway here. Use controlled steady movements and evaluate the panel and surrounding areas first. Check for moisture on panel and floor. Is there rust? Don’t let the customer get close and be prepared to move away quickly if a problem. look for evidence of fire, rodents and panel cover screws with sharp ends. Are any wires nicked?
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This picture shows a correct tripping of a GFCI with the button on a tester. Once the tester is removed, the circuit should be reset, then tripped again with the button on the receptacle. After testing, it is confirmed that the receptacle is working properly.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I choose to do a write up on using a GFCI to protect up to 3 more receptacles. This is needed to alleviate the constant need for more GFCI receptacles to protect users and their devices. While it is also important to remember that you can only use the load side to protect up to 3 devices downstream.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The NEC requires GFCI outlets in garages, bathrooms, kitchens, outdoors and anywhere else water is likely to be present. The breaker inside a GFCI outlet trips when it detects a sudden surge of current. GFCIs have two buttons in front, not always but often colored red and black. The black button is for testing the outlet, while the red one is for resetting it in the event that it trips.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
GFCI
A GFCI measures and monitors the current flowing into and out of a tool or appliance, If the current difference is more than 5 milliamps, the circuit will be opened and the power disconnected. GFCI is required in all rooms where water could get into the receptacles, like in bathrooms, the laundry room, and garages, and would create a dangerous situation for people.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This picture represent a service mast with a masthead and a rain cap. You can se it is 3 feet above the roof and the conduit runs down the outside wall before it enters the house and the fuse box. The Drip loop is also present.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
When inspecting a service panel you should always wear safety eye wear and gloves. The inspector should make sure the service entrance conduits are sized properly and there is a bushing on the entrance to protect the service entrance wire. The inspector should make sure there are no double taps. The inspector should also make sure that the ground and neutral wires are separated.
Research & Writing Assignment:
I read the article on Ground-Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs)and was surprised to find that an estimated 300 deaths per year are contributed to electrocution. I was also surprised to find that it is recommended that the GFCI’s be tested monthly, I will be including this as a standard maintenance note in my reports from here on out.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Safety for panel inspections
Every inspector needs to be very cautious in attempting to inspect an electrical panel. In addition to wearing safety glasses and gloves, the inspector should also make sure, s/he is not standing on a wet floor, nor opens a panel that looks rusty or moist. Checking any pipes for moisture near the panel, especially if it is located in a garage or laundry room that contain higher levels of humidity, is necessary. Also, the inspector should have a safe place to escape to in case of a defected panel.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
Hello. I have here an image of an improper(amateurish) wire connection made outside of a junction box. These wires should have connected with proper wire nuts, not electrical tape. Also, after a proper connection is made, the connection should be enclosed in a junction box.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The image shown is that of a main electrical panel. The panel make is located on a label on the inside of the door. The labor will include a year in was made and also specifications that correspond with the panel. Like, what type of breakers can be used in the panel. Prior to touching the panel be sure to be wearing safety gear. To check for a charged panel, touch the panel with the back of your hand.
Research & Writing Assignment:
Hello. In reading an article on electrical safety, I learned that not only should I as an inspector be better aware of the safety issues that electricity presents, but that I should be educating my clients on electrical safety too. Many homeowners are totally unaware of some major electrical issues and safety practices as it pertains to electricity. For example, explaining how GFCI’s work to protect them in case of an electrical fault could ease their mind and leave them feeling more comfortable in their home and with the service that we provide.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
This is an outlet that is just outside the bathroom and next to the walk-in closet. The light switch on the right operates the closet light and it works. The outlet on the left is a GFCI and does not work. There is no current flow as is indicated by the GFCI tester not having any lights go on. An electrician is recommended take care of the problem. Also, the outlet cover plate is missing and needs to be installed.
Research & Writing Assignment:
A duplex receptacle is 2 outlets. Each outlet contains a hot slot and a neutral slot. Some will include a grounding slot. You will also find the amperage and voltage ratings and current type of the receptacle printed on the front of the panel.
Inspection & Writing Assignment:
The subpanel was observed to have multiple deficiencies. In the photo, the subpanel had improper bonding. The subpanel had a bonding strap connected, which is improper. The bus in the photo also had neutral and grounds terminated as well as double taps.
Research & Writing Assignment:
INspecting the electrical system of homes is extremely important. The inspector should pay close attention to service entry conductors, terminations, overall condition of the cabinet, taps at breakers and bus bars as well as verifying the proper gauges and identifying the conductor type (AL/CU).
