NHIE Electrical Systems 4

Question 1

What is the maximum number of circuits allowed on a 200-amp residential service panel?

Accepted Answer

The number depends on the panel's listed capacity, not amperage

Answer

40 circuits

Answer

42 circuits

Answer

60 circuits

Question 2

A home inspector finds a 20-amp breaker protecting a circuit with 14 AWG wire. What is the problem?

Accepted Answer

14 AWG wire is only rated for 15 amps and is undersized for a 20-amp breaker

Answer

14 AWG wire requires a 30-amp breaker minimum

Answer

14 AWG cannot be used for branch circuits at all

Answer

The breaker should be 25 amps for a 14 AWG conductor

Question 3

What does a three-slot receptacle with a U-shaped slot indicate about the circuit?

Accepted Answer

The circuit is grounded, with the U-slot being the equipment ground

Answer

The circuit has two hot conductors for 240V operation

Answer

The circuit is GFCI-protected

Answer

The circuit is on a dedicated 20-amp circuit

Question 4

An inspector observes a 60-amp disconnect for an air conditioning unit with 10 AWG wire. The unit's nameplate states a maximum overcurrent protection of 40 amps. What is the concern?

Accepted Answer

The overcurrent protection exceeds the equipment's nameplate maximum rating

Answer

10 AWG wire requires at least a 70-amp disconnect

Answer

A disconnect is not required for air conditioning units under 5 tons

Answer

10 AWG wire is too small for any AC disconnect

Question 5

What is the minimum height above a residential garage floor for a receptacle outlet?

Accepted Answer

There is no minimum height; standard placement applies

Answer

12 inches

Answer

18 inches

Answer

48 inches to prevent contact with vehicles

Question 6

A home inspector finds exposed Romex (NM cable) running along the surface of a basement wall below 7 feet. What should be reported?

Accepted Answer

NM cable must be protected from physical damage when exposed below 7 feet

Answer

NM cable is permitted anywhere in a basement regardless of height

Answer

NM cable is not permitted in basements at any height

Answer

Exposed NM cable is only an issue in finished basements

Question 7

What is the purpose of a 'load calculation' as it relates to a home's electrical service?

Accepted Answer

It calculates whether the service amperage is adequate for the home's electrical demand

Answer

It determines the number of outlets required per room

Answer

It measures the actual current draw of all appliances simultaneously

Answer

It identifies circuits that exceed 80% of their rated capacity