InterNACHI Electrical Systems and Safety 2

Question 1

What is the minimum clearance required between the top of a residential electrical panel and the ceiling?

Accepted Answer

6 feet

Answer

NEC requires at least 6 feet of headroom clearance above electrical panels to allow safe access for work.

Question 2

Which wire color in a standard 120V household circuit indicates the neutral conductor?

Accepted Answer

White

Answer

White wires are the neutral conductors in standard 120V household circuits, carrying current back to the panel.

Question 3

An inspector finds that a bathroom outlet is not GFCI-protected but is within 6 feet of a sink. What should be noted?

Accepted Answer

This is a safety deficiency requiring correction

Answer

All bathroom outlets require GFCI protection regardless of distance from a water source, per current NEC requirements.

Question 4

What does the term 'double-tapping' refer to in electrical panel inspections?

Accepted Answer

Connecting two conductors to a single breaker terminal

Answer

Double-tapping occurs when two wires are connected to a single breaker terminal, which is a defect unless the breaker is rated for it.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes a 'floating neutral' condition in an electrical panel?

Accepted Answer

A neutral bus not properly bonded, causing voltage imbalance

Answer

A floating neutral occurs when the neutral is not properly connected, which can cause dangerous voltage imbalances on 240V circuits.

(InterNACHI) International Association of Certified Home Inspectors Practice Test