Electrical Defects

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Non IC potlights in attic space

Non IC potlights in attic space

Common issue with homeowner upgrades is to install pot lights in the second floor ceiling. Because the attic space above is insulated, specific IC pot lights need to be installed or the pot lights needs to be boxed out to keep clearance from combustibles such as insulation and structural members. These can be fire issues because the heat generated but these fixtures can not dissipate properly. These issues need to be verified by a licensed electrical contractor and repaired immediately
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Open ground at GFCI outlet Pedro Giorgana

Missing ground at GFCI outlet

GFCI inoperative due missing ground at electrical outlets, correction is required to meet electrical code requirements in new construction and/or home renovations
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Reverse polarity Pedro Giorgana Inspec Homes new construction

Reverse polarity

It is not uncommon to find reverse polarity in the electrical outlets, usually by DIY instead an electrician doing the work
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Fire hazard due burn breaker at main panel

Damage Breakers

Safety is number one and when is related to the electrical panel becomes a real issue and posible fire hazard if not review and repair on time. Your electrical panel should be review every year for any deficiencies and safety.
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Knob and tube wiring in the basement are present and live

Is knob and tube wiring legal

Home insulation and knob and tube wiring can be a dangerous combination, since this form of wiring relies upon open space to disperse heat. When insulation is placed around these wires, heat can't escape as it should, which can cause wires to overheat or break, becoming a fire hazard
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60 amp fuses present at main breaker

60 amp main breaker concerns

More frequently, insurance companies are denying home insurance to homeowners with 60 amp service. Across North America, a significant number of insurance companies now consider a 60 amp, 120/240volt service to be unsafe or a significantly greater risk than a 100 amp or higher service.
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Ottawa rusty breaker from home inspection

Rusty electric components in breaker box

Rust compromises the integrity of electrical components. These vital safety mechanisms in the breaker box should be inspected and replaced by a professional.
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Home Inspector defect issue 60 amp fuse box disconnect that is feeling a newer 100amp panel.

60 Amp Disconnect ( Transfer swith)

This 1950's home has a newer panel with a 100 amp main breaker but it was being fed from a 60 Amp fused disconnect box in the garage. This is a defect that need to be corrected. 60 amp is typically not enough for modern living. It is also incorrect to have a main breaker larger then the disconnect. Electricians coming in to add to this panel may incorrectly assume it has a 100 amp capacity when in reality 60 amp will cause the disconnect to trip.
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