Electrical System – Make A Thorough Check Now To Avoid Shocks Later!

We cannot live without electricity because we need it to power our electrical systems, such as, lights, heat, fans, cooking appliances televisions, telephones, computers and other modern conveniences. During interior home checking for the new house you are planning to buy, ensure that all these electrical systems are in good condition.

Interior Home Checking: Check the Wires

First thing to check is to see where the electrical service enters the house. You can trace it by looking for the electrical meter. This is the central distribution point. If electricity is delivered through wires that are overhead, watch out for tree branches outside that may threaten the wires. The wires must not be in contact with the roof. You must have a grounding wire connected safely to the breaker box at one end and to a water pipe or copper rod in the ground. This can be a safety issue if missing or loose.

You have to check carefully to see if there is water anywhere near electrical fixtures. The overhead power should have a U-shaped look near the service tower, which will allow water to drip off from fixtures.



Interior Home Checking: A bad electrical system can be shocking news!

It is easy to find faulty wiring. Check whether all outside outlets have waterproof covers. The outlets must be GFCI. These are more powerful against electric shock. Test all outlets, light sockets and switches to see if they work. Is there an updated system with three prong outlet circuit breakers, etc? Look for GFI outlets in the bathroom and kitchen. There must be no broken or loose outlets. The lights must be bright.

Check to see whether the house has at least 100-amp service. What kind of wiring does the house have? Exterior wiring must be covered with weatherproof outlet covers and switches. Are there adequate outlets in each room, and are they operational? Are the light switches located conveniently? Is the service panel located in an accessible place? If it is an old home, there must be GFCI outlets in baths exterior and garage location? Check to see whether there are any temporary repairs to wiring to be done.

Interior Home Checking: Check for Unsafe Electrical Service

Look for signs of insufficient and unsafe electrical service. Inspect the outlets and switches and see if they are overheated. Light fixtures must be securely attached to ceiling. It is okay to switch switches on and off. If there is dimmed or flickering light that indicates an electrical problem. This preliminary check done, you can always come back and re-examine the house more in detail. Light switches must also be checked for sparks when you turn them on and off.