9 Common Electrical Defects Every Homeowner Should Know

Thoughts From the Crawlspace

This week on the Thoughts from the Crawlspace podcast, Jamie Miller, CEO of Gold Key Home Inspections, Inc., shares the top nine electrical defects commonly found in homes. Jamie explores reversed polarity, knob-and-tube wiring, and double-tapped breakers, along with straightforward solutions for each defect. He stresses the significance of addressing these issues promptly to ensure safety and compliance in home electrical systems.

Listen for advice and expert recommendations that will equip you with the knowledge to navigate electrical challenges in residential properties.

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Episode Highlights

• Electrical defects in homes can lead to serious safety hazards; it's crucial to identify and fix them.
• Ungrounded outlets are common in older homes and can affect appliance warranties and safety.
• Reversed polarity on outlets can create shock hazards, especially when changing light bulbs.
• Knob and tube wiring is outdated and poses fire risks; replacement is highly recommended.
• Double-tapped breakers can cause overheating and fire risks due to loose connections.
• GFCIs are essential near water sources to prevent electric shocks; ensure they are installed and functional.

Timestamps

(00:00) Common Electrical Issues for Homeowners

(00:33) Top Nine Electrical Defects in Homes

(01:00) Electrical Defect #1: Ungrounded Outlets

(07:09) Electrical Defect #2: Reversed Polarity

(09:04) Electrical Defect #3: Knob and Tube Wiring

(12:57) Electrical Defect #4: Double Tapped Breakers

(14:37) Electrical Defect #5: Oversized Breakers

(15:53) Electrical Defect #6: Improper Splices

(17:13) Electrical Defect #7: Uncovered Junction Boxes

(17:37) Electrical Defect #8: Old or Missing GFCIs

(19:20) Electrical Defect #9: Defective Panels