Before investing in a new home or property, there are many things you ask yourself and the current owner before fully committing. It’s important to be sure about your new home, but that means you have to know the right questions to ask. We have created a small list of general, good-to-know electrical questions to ask before saying yes to your new place.
1. What Kind Of Wiring Does The Home Have?
Several different types of electrical wiring have been used in homes. The biggest determining factor to which type your house has is usually the age of the home, and whether or not it was recently rewired. It’s possible that a home can have more than one type of wiring as well. The most common type of electrical wiring used in homes today is the NM or non-metallic cable. Thermoplastic high-heat resistant nylon-coated wire (THHN/THWN) and underground feeder (UF) cables are also very common. Be sure to check which type your house has and see if that is the comfortable choice for you.
2. How Big Is The Electric Panel And Where Is It Located?
It’s important before you buy or rent a house to know where your electric panel is and to take a careful look at it. The electric panel is the source of power for your house and items, so make sure that it appears to be in good working condition, and that its size will be accommodating for the needs of your home.
3. Are The Outlets GFCI Equipped?
GFCI is a Ground Fault Circuit Interpreter. Your outlets must be equipped with these as they monitor the electrical current moving through your circuits. It balances the electricity moving, and if there is an issue or power goes where it shouldn’t be, then it will immediately cut it off. These are important features to have near outlets that could be exposed to water, like in the kitchen or bathroom for example. It will save you from the harm of an electric shock and help you avoid any other dangers.
Have Your Home Inspected Before Renting Or Buying
After you have asked all the important questions, it is still a good idea to have a professional take a look for you. We at Sunrise Electric can provide you with a thorough check of your new home to make sure we cover all of your bases. If we do find an issue, we can go ahead and schedule you for your next service. If you are wondering what else you can do before you buy a home, visit our sister company, Crawlspace Medic, to see what you can find out about crawl spaces and basements.
