Plugging Into Outlet Safety
Question: I’m selling my house and the inspector has recommended that I install GFI outlets for added safety, but I’m wondering if this is required for an older home. What are the GFI requirements for a house built in 1984?
Answer: Typically, GFIs (ground fault interrupters) appear as outlets with two built-in buttons, one to test and one to reset the circuit. Most people have seen GFI outlets, but many are still unaware of their intended purpose. The purpose of these devices is to prevent injury or electrocution in the event of a short circuit, and generally, they are required where electrical fixtures are used in proximity to water.
The specific years when GFI requirements became code vary from one municipality to another. Review of new codes and official adoption into law is not an immediate process and usually occurs one or more years after the code is drafted. For example, a new standard could be written into the code book in 1978. In one city it might become an accepted requirement in 1979, while other cities or counties might not approve it for new construction until 1980 or ’81.
In the late 1970s, GFI became mandatory for exterior outlets, outlets in bathrooms and those near pools and spas and beneath buildings. In the early ‘80s, garage outlets were added to the list. For a home built in 1984, these would be the applicable standards.
In the late ‘80s, requirements were expanded to include all outlets within 6 feet of a kitchen sink, and in the mid-’90s, GFI rules were enlarged to include sinks at wet bars and laundries.
If the outlets in your home comply with older requirements, upgrading to current GFI standards is strongly recommended. Safety considerations are more important than rigid legal compliance.
Speed Adjustable on Furnace Blower
Q: The house we are buying has a 20-year-old furnace that works fine in all respects except one. When the blower is on, the rush of air at the intake grills is terribly loud. According to the home inspector, the blower velocity can be changed from high to low speed by simply changing some wires. But I’m wondering if there are any negative side effects to this solution.
A: The high speed setting on a furnace blower is generally intended for air-conditioning. When the system is operating in heat mode, slower air circulation is recommended. Therefore, it is unlikely that you will experience any adverse consequences if you lower the blower speed of your forced-air system.
If you check the manufacturer’s rating plate on your furnace, you will observe a listing of temperature ranges for each speed setting. For low blower speeds, the range is usually between 40 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This means that the temperature of the air blowing from the room registers should be 40 to 70 degrees hotter than the air that is drawn through the intake grill. You can check this with a thermometer.
But be sure to have the system checked by a licensed heating contractor before proceeding with any changes.
If you have questions or comments, contact Barry Stone through his Web site at https://www.housedetective.com.
