CHI Electrical Systems Inspection 5

Question 1

What is the primary hazard associated with a home inspector finding a Double-tapped neutral at the neutral bus bar in a panel?

Accepted Answer

A loose neutral connection can cause voltage fluctuations and damage appliances

Answer

It causes the breakers to trip more frequently

Answer

It reduces the available ampacity of the panel

Answer

Double-tapped neutrals are only a concern in sub-panels

Question 2

A home inspector observes that the grounding electrode conductor is connected to a metal water pipe near the water meter. What concern should be noted?

Accepted Answer

A plastic section of pipe downstream could interrupt the grounding path

Answer

Metal water pipes are not acceptable grounding electrodes

Answer

The conductor must be connected inside the panel only

Answer

Water pipe grounds are only allowed with copper pipes, not galvanized

Question 3

Which of the following best describes the role of a whole-house surge protector during a home inspection assessment?

Accepted Answer

It is a desirable but optional device that protects appliances from voltage spikes

Answer

It is a required NEC component since 2020 for new construction

Answer

It replaces the need for individual GFCI receptacles

Answer

It limits the service ampacity to prevent panel overloads

Question 4

A home inspector finds that the main disconnect is located in a bedroom closet. What should be reported?

Accepted Answer

Service equipment must not be located in bathrooms but closets are typically acceptable

Answer

Closets are acceptable locations if the panel is a surface-mount type

Answer

All panels in living spaces must be rated for indoor use only

Answer

The panel must be relocated to the garage per NEC requirements

Question 5

During inspection, an inspector finds wiring run through a gas furnace plenum. What is the concern?

Accepted Answer

Standard NEC cables like Romex are not rated for plenum use and can emit toxic fumes in a fire

Answer

Only aluminum wiring is prohibited in plenums

Answer

Plenum wiring is only restricted in commercial buildings

Answer

Wiring in plenums must be in conduit regardless of cable type

Question 6

A home inspector tests a GFCI receptacle and it does not trip when the test button is pressed. What should be concluded?

Accepted Answer

The GFCI is defective or at end of life and should be replaced

Answer

The GFCI is functioning normally; test buttons do not always cause a trip

Answer

The GFCI is protecting downstream receptacles and should not trip locally

Answer

The circuit needs a dedicated neutral for the test to work properly

Question 7

What does it mean when a home inspector finds an electrical panel with a 'used-by' rating of 100 amps but the service entrance conductors appear to be sized for 200 amps?

Accepted Answer

The oversized conductors could allow the utility to deliver more current than the panel is rated to handle safely

Answer

This is an upgrade opportunity with no safety concern

Answer

Conductor size does not affect panel ratings — only breaker size matters

Answer

The utility company controls amperage delivery so oversized wires are harmless