Electrical Services

Most homes in Florida require a minimum of 150 amps of electrical service if they are centrally heated and cooled. A service of less than 150 amps may indicate that additional electrical power is needed; a licensed electrical contractor can make that determination. Unless otherwise reported, all wiring is non-metallic coated (Romex) material.

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters

Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI's) are safety devices and, if present, should be tested monthly to help insure proper operation and protection. If GFCI protection is not present, it is recommended that it be installed for each bathroom and for all exterior outlets (particularly around or near swimming pools), kitchen outlets, or any other electrical outlets that are in close proximity to water or wet areas.

Branch Wiring

Some homes built in the late 1960's through the early 1970's were wired with solid aluminum wiring for branch circuits. If not correctly installed, the wiring connections for solid aluminum wiring can become loose and create a safety or potential fire hazard. If solid aluminum wiring is present, a full electrical inspection or the home should be made by a qualified electrician to determine actual conditions and what corrections may be needed.

Dishwashers and Disposal

Dishwashers and disposals have a normal useful life of 5 to 12 years and are checked only for basic operation. Dishwashers should be run through a full cycle at least twice a month so that the internal seals do not dry out and create leakage.

Smoke Detectors

If no smoke detectors are presently installed in the building, it is recommended that, at a minimum, smoke detectors be installed in the ceilings or the hallways outside sleeping rooms.

Ranges Ovens and Refrigerators

Ranges, ovens, cook tops and refrigerators have a normal useful life of 15 to 20 years and are checked only for basic operation.

Clothes Washers and Dryers

Clothes washer and dryers cannot be properly inspected without a load of laundry, so these appliances are tested to determine operating condition only. A washer or dryer has a normal life expectancy of approximately 6 to 12 years. When hooking up a dryer, make sure it is vented to the outside to prevent excessive moisture buildup in the house. Dryer vents should be inspected annually to prevent clogging which could adversely affect the performance of the dryer. Cleaning of the dryer vents should be considered every five years or so, depending on usage.

Homes built prior to the 1940's were primarily wired with 'knob and tube' circuitry. If this type of wiring is present, it is advisable to have it fully inspected by a licensed electrician to ensure that the wiring insulation in still functional. Frayed or damaged insulation could pose a fire hazard. This type of wiring should not be covered with attic insulation. Upgrading this type of wiring to meet today's standards should be considered.