It is not unusual for older properties to lack an adequate number of outlets to meet todays appliance demands. Years ago, there were not the "modern" connivance appliances like microwaves, plasma TV's and the like. However, as appliances are added to meet the demands of today's lifestyles, the typical solution for most home owners are ganged outlets or computer power strips. Although these are fine for low current applications, they are not designed for high current appliances like refrigerators or washing machines. .
While inspecting an "experienced" property in the east Nashville, TN area the other day, I saw several of these computer strips used to run appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves and washing machines. Along with these appliances, were also connections to lamps, toasters and what have you. Use of these strips for these applications are potential fire hazards. I know that it is far cheaper to purchase a $10 power strip to meet demands v/s $150-$200 to have an electrician to install a new circuit, but is the potential for a fire worth it? Smoke, water, and fire damage along with loss of use of your property far exceeds this cost. Keep this in mind before you decide to become a stripper...
Wishing all my fellow drips and tweeps a G-r-r-r-reat day... 8-)
If you or someone you know is purchasing a home in Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville, Spring Hill or Thompson's Station in the Davidson or Williamson county area of Middle Tennessee and would like more information about getting a home inspection, give us a call at 615.661.0297. You can visit us online at www.completehomeinspectionsonline.com - Check out our monthly newletter
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This posting and the contents herein is the intellectual property of Michael Thornton, CEO of The Complete Group. We provide the highest quality service in the areas of home inspections and videos/photography for the web, corporate, businesses and the real estate industry. Complete Home Inspections, Inc. and Creative Video Concepts serves the Brentwood, Franklin, Nashville and the area surrounding Davidson and Williamson County TN. This post is a contribution to the ActiveRain Real Estate Network.
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Morning Michael,
Power strips and extension cords pose a very real hazard and risk. Not only loss of use and property damage but the potential of loss of life. Those considerations should justify spending $200.00, don't you think!
I am happy to report I am not a stripper.
It is one thing to run them to connect all of your computer "stuff" but wow fridges, microwaves and all of the other essentials? You are right a receipe for disaster.
Michael I don't think you have to worry about me becoming a stripper, but I have been guilty of loading up a power strip.
Hal... Many folks do not think about that...
Melody... Cool...
Cindy... There are a lot of receipts for disaster out there...
David... I have been guilty of using every slot in these myself for computer equipment but not washing machines....
Michael, that is so dangerous, especially with all those high wattage appliances. The other one that makes me cringe is to see an extension cord running under the carpet! Have a great day. kevincavanaughonline.com
My dad was always spooked about electricity and pulled all the plugs to our fans out every night (many moons ago) and I remember some sweltering nights 'cause he would hear when we plugged them back in. He couldn't sleep for worrying about fire if the fans were on!
Hi Michael - Thanks for the information. That's a scary sight to see in a home. It's a flag that says "this home needs electrical upgrades." Every home inspector I have had has commented on the state of the electiral system in a home; that's highly valuable information for the buyer.
Great title Michael. I had to look even though I am strapped for time today. Have a great week.
Michael---does "streaker" count? Seriously though I sometimes find those strips even plugged into each other----especially around Christmas time:)
I am a stripper behind my computer. Seems impossible to be any other way... Might make sense to have a GFCI installed on the outlet?
your friend in Charlottesville!
Charlie B... Yup! Seen that one too...
Charles M... I have power strips plugged into power strips running all my computer equipment. After all, I am a computer junkie and have to have the latest and greatest...
Somebody call the fire department quick. That is an old homes issue but even some of the newer homes have the same issue
Shelton