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

The maximum number of circuits is determined by the panel's UL listing and physical space, not solely by the amperage rating.

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 copper wire is rated for 15 amps; a 20-amp breaker will not trip before the wire overheats.

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 U-shaped slot on a three-prong receptacle is the equipment grounding conductor connection.

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

Overcurrent protection must not exceed the equipment's maximum listed rating to protect the appliance and wiring.

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

NEC does not specify a minimum height for garage receptacles, though they must be GFCI-protected.

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

(NHIE) National Home Inspector Examination Practice Test

NHIE Electrical Systems 4