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Terry Black - TREC #1593
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Limited Visual Inspection: 
 Branch Circuits - Connected Devices and Fixtures C
   
wpeF.jpg (12468 bytes) This kind of exposed connection is a fire hazard!
   
wpe11.jpg (9581 bytes) The ground wire is not attached to the ground screw on this switch.
   
open j box to many connect.jpg (32662 bytes) Count all the connections in this junction box. This is a fire hazard. There are so many connections that a cover could not be installed. This is what happens when unlicensed repair contractors and/or home owners attempt repairs. (We are speaking in general terms, here so please don't send me a bunch of hate mail.)
   
open J box no pipe.jpg (18075 bytes) This is  wiring that is a fire hazard. The switch box has shorted out. 
   
 
It is mandatory that Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter Device (G.F.C.I.) be written up as in "need of repair" by licensed real estate inspectors under the Texas State Standards of Practice if they are not located in the proper location and/or missing.  G.F.C.I. devices are not "grandfathered" as most licensed electricians, real estate and/or repair people will lead you to believe.   

What is a GFCI

The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter is one of the most important parts of the modern electrical system. It is also one of the most misunderstood. It is often thought to be an overload (circuit breaker) device. It is in fact very different.

It does not open (or pop) from using too much electricity, and that is not it's purpose. It is a meant to be a Life Saving Device that continually senses imbalances in an electrical circuit. When it senses a Ground Fault or current leaking to ground (or through you); it is designed to open the circuit within as little as 1/40 of a second before it can harm someone!

The screw terminals on GFCI's are made to be connected to the wires in one way only! If these wires are not connected the right way, the device will not function properly. The outlet may seem to work, but there will be no protection!

 
Related Information: 
GFCI How they work GFCI Demonstration NFPA

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TREC #1593
Real estate inspections, home inspections, house inspections, home inspectors, real estate inspectors, Houston home inspectors, home inspections, Houston, League City, Clear Lake, Friendswood, NASA