Closer Look Inspections, Inc.

Finding aluminum wiring in a home you're considering purchasing can be cause for concern, but it's not necessarily a deal-breaker. Aluminum wiring was commonly used in homes built between the mid-1960s and early 1970s as a cost-effective alternative to copper. However, it was later discovered that aluminum wiring could pose significant safety risks, including the potential for overheating and electrical fires. Fortunately, several solutions can mitigate the risks associated with aluminum wiring. Below, we will look at a few of the options we have found that are available to you to help you make an informed decision.  1. Rewiring the Entire Home with Copper Wiring Positive changes: Safety: Replacing aluminum wiring with copper is the safest and most reliable solution. Copper wiring is less prone to overheating, and its connections are more stable over time, reducing the risk of electrical fires. Insurance Benefits: Many insurance companies view copper wiring as a lower risk, w...

One of our key responsibilities is to educate home buyers about potential issues they may encounter during the home buying process. One such concern is the presence of alumicon, which is something that could potentially impact the safety and value of a home. In this blog, we'll delve into what alumicon is, where it is commonly found, why it poses a problem, and what steps you can take if it's discovered in a home you're considering purchasing. What Is Alumicon? Alumicon is a term commonly used to describe the use of aluminum wiring in conjunction with copper pigtails and special connectors. This technique was often used as a solution for homes that originally had aluminum wiring installed, particularly in homes built between the mid-1960s and early 1970s. Aluminum wiring was initially favored because it was less expensive than copper, but it was later found to pose significant risks, leading to the development of alumicon as a corrective measure. Where Is Alumicon Found? Al...

Imagine this… you’ve just purchased your dream home. The excitement of moving in, decorating, and settling into a new life is overwhelming. But beneath the surface of your perfect home, a ticking time bomb is lurking—one you had no idea existed until it was too late. This may sound a bit dramatic to some, however it is the reality for many home buyers who unknowingly inherit recalled electrical panels, only to face severe consequences down the road. Think of This Scenario For many home buyers, the discovery of a recalled electrical panel happens only after they’ve moved in, unpacked, and begun to enjoy their new space. Perhaps a minor electrical issue prompts a visit from an electrician, or an insurance inspector notices something amiss during a routine check. It’s then that the buyer learns that the home’s electrical panel is not just old—it’s a recalled model known for its dangerous defects. Safety Risks and Electrical Hazards The first and most pressing issue is the safety risk. Rec...

When purchasing a home, the excitement of finding the perfect property can sometimes overshadow critical considerations that could impact your safety and financial future. One such issue that often goes unnoticed by home buyers is the condition and recall status of the home's electrical panel. Unfortunately, ignorance in this area can lead to serious problems down the road, both in terms of safety and unexpected expenses. The Importance of Electrical Panels The electrical panel, also known as the breaker box, is the heart of your home's electrical system. It controls the flow of electricity from the utility company to various circuits within the house. A properly functioning panel ensures that your home receives the correct amount of power and protects against electrical overloads by tripping breakers if a circuit becomes overloaded. However, not all electrical panels are created equal. Over the years, several brands and models of electrical panels have been recalled due to saf...