People sometimes overlook electrical home inspections because electrical wiring and other components are behind the scenes. That is until something goes wrong. To save yourself from costly repairs or new installs, you can save your pocketbook thousands of dollars by having a home inspection from USA Electric in Los Angeles.
Wiring
In general, a home that contains round fuses at the service panel may give clues to the general age of the home’s wiring. Older homes built before 1950 may contain knob-and-tube wiring. Homes built between 1965 and 1973 may contain aluminum wiring. Both types of wiring have unique safety and performance characteristics and could be more challenging to ensure. Homebuyers should be aware of this issue and homeowners should consider replacing the home’s wiring for improved safety and marketability.
Safety
According to the National Fire Protection Agency electrical failure or malfunction has caused more than 144,000 homes to catch fire between 2007 and 2011. While an electrical inspection may not be required when buying a new home or making major renovations to an existing home, it can reveal potential problems such as electrical deficiencies, and prevent hazards and possibly fires.
Interior Outlets and Lighting
Whether a home is currently occupied or up for sale or, light switches, interior outlets, GFCIs, and appliance cords should be routinely tested and visually inspected. Loose outlets must be tightened or replaced and cords must fit snugly. Outlets should be visually inspected for black smoke and cool to the touch. USA Electric has licensed (License C-10 892870) electricians in Los Angeles who can inspect any humming noises or switching sounds around outlets or lighting.
Electrical Service Panel
Every home has an electrical service panel. The panel contains fuses or circuit breakers. The panel and its components must be reviewed for age, dark or smoky residue, and wear and tear. If the panel contains out-dated round fuses, these should be replaced by a licensed (License C-10 892870) electrician with circuit breakers switches. If the service panel is rusty or worn, it should be replaced immediately.
Wet Area Near Outlets
Wet areas, including bathrooms and kitchens, must have ground fault circuit interrupters installed. Additionally, light switches must be several inches away from water. Outside outlets also must GFCIs installed. In general, GFCIs must be installed in any area where water could be present. Homeowners are advised to test GFCIs periodically; homebuyers should check them during the home walk-through before closing.
So what are you waiting for? Hopefully, no electrical problems to occur before you give us a call! (800) 956-9737!
