Electrical Systems and Safety Flashcards
7 cards from real INTERNACHI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Electrical Systems and Safety flashcards as text
What is the required arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection for bedroom circuits in homes built to current NEC standards?
Answer: AFCI protection is required for all 120V, 15- and 20-amp branch circuits in bedrooms
The NEC requires AFCI protection for all 120V, 15- and 20-amp branch circuits in bedrooms to reduce fire risk from arc faults in cords and wiring.
When inspecting a garage, an inspector finds an outlet within 6 feet of a vehicle door that is not GFCI-protected. What is the correct assessment?
Answer: A deficiency, as all garage outlets require GFCI protection regardless of location
All receptacles in garages (except dedicated appliance circuits) require GFCI protection per NEC requirements, regardless of their location within the garage.
An inspector discovers that the grounding electrode conductor at the main panel is a #6 AWG copper wire connected to a metal water pipe. What should be noted if the water pipe is plastic near the street?
Answer: The grounding system may be compromised if the metallic water pipe section is short and discontinuous
If a plastic section interrupts the metal water pipe before reaching earth, the pipe segment cannot serve as a grounding electrode and the system is compromised.
Which of the following best describes the function of a whole-house surge protector installed at the main electrical panel?
Answer: It diverts excess voltage from transient surges to protect connected devices
A whole-house surge protector diverts excess transient voltage to ground, reducing the risk of surge damage to sensitive electronics throughout the home.
What is the concern when a home inspector finds multiple extension cords being used as permanent wiring in a bedroom?
Answer: Extension cords used as permanent wiring are a fire and shock hazard and indicate insufficient outlets
Extension cords are not designed for permanent use, can overheat, and their use indicates a need for additional permanently wired outlets.
During an exterior inspection, an inspector finds service drop conductors with less than 10 feet of clearance above a driveway used by vehicles. What is the correct finding?
Answer: A potential safety hazard — service drop clearance should be at least 10 feet over driveways not used by trucks
NEC requires a minimum 10-foot clearance for service conductors over driveways accessible to pedestrians but not trucks; inadequate clearance is a safety hazard.
What condition is indicated when a home inspector tests a GFCI outlet and the reset button does not pop out after pressing the test button?
Answer: The GFCI device has failed and is no longer providing protection
If pressing the test button on a GFCI does not cause the reset button to pop out and interrupt power, the device has failed and must be replaced.