The team at Realty Inspection Services answers common questions
associated with the results of home inspections.Have a question for
us? Ask it here! |
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Q:
Why
do sump pumps stop working in heavy rain? |
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A:
If
the sump pump does not initiate as the water in the basin rises, the float
switch, which turns on the pump, may be hanging on something in the tank.
Simply repositioning the pump should solve the problem. Debris can also be a
factor since it can interfere with the activation of the float switch. It is
important to make sure that your pump switch and float arm assembly move
freely. To maximize the life expectancy of the unit, you should always
follow the maintenance guidelines as given by the pump manufacturer.
Checking your sump pump should be done on a regular basis, not just during
heavy rains. In addition, a back-up sump pump should be considered.
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Q: How do you decide where to test for radon? |
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A: All inspectors are required to follow the protocol for short-term
(under 90 days) radon testing as recommended by the Department of
Environmental Protection. The DEP recommends “...testing the lowest livable
area of the building and considers the basement, if any, to be the lowest
livable area if it can be used as a living area without major structural
changes. For real estate transactions, this is true even if the basement is
not currently renovated into a finished living space because the buyer may
renovate and use the basement as a living space. Naturally, basements with
ground floors or low ceilings would need major structural changes and,
therefore, would not be considered the lowest livable area.” In addition,
closed house conditions must be maintained for at least 12 hours prior to
the test and for the duration of the test in order to provide the most
accurate test possible. |
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Q:
Is it safe
to use Clorox for laundry if you have a septic system? |
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A:
Clorox is harmful to the
septic because the cleaning agent kills the bacteria necessary for the
decomposition of waste solids. This puts the system at risk for blockages
and back-ups. In addition, you should not introduce grease or cigarette
butts into your system for the same reason. Before putting any product in
your septic, make sure to check the label to see whether it is septic safe
or biodegradable. |
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Q:
What is Federal Pacific electrical circuitry? Is it safe? |
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A:
While Federal Pacific equipment is no longer installed in homes, there is no
recall to remove this equipment as of yet. The danger with Federal Pacific
breakers is that when the circuits heat up, the breakers do not trip, which
could cause the wiring to overheat. Due to the volatile nature of this
equipment, replacement should be seriously considered. |
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