Home Inspection Issues and Common Problems

why do radon levels fluctuate so much?

1/31/2021

We often get asked why radon levels fluctuate, often dramatically, during the 48-hour test period and whether there is cause for concern. There are many reasons for this and the fluctuations are perfectly normal, but this emphasizes the reason that a long term average gives the best indication of whether radon is truly elevated in the home.

The most common reasons that radon levels fluctuate can be broken down into three basic categories:

Air pressure differentials in the home;
Use of exhaust devices that vent indoor air to the exterior;
Weather.

Ungrounded Electrical receptacles (outlets)

1/13/2021

Grounding of electrical receptacles is an important safety feature that minimizes the risk of electric shock and protects electrical equipment from damage. Modern, grounded 120-volt receptacles in the United States have a small, round ground slot centered below two vertical hot and neutral slots, and it provides an alternate path for electricity that may stray from an appliance.

Frozen AC Lines in the Summer

7/24/2020

It’s the middle of summer and despite the 90-degree weather, you notice your air conditioning lines are frozen over with a layer of ice. What gives? Sometimes the solution is as easy as replacing the filter, other times an HVAC professional may be needed.
Common Reasons AC Lines Freeze Over

Low refrigerant level
Refrigerant leak
Dirty filter
Clogged duct
Blocked or closed vent cover
Closed damper
Dirty evaporator coil
Malfunctioning/damaged indoor blower fan

Will foundation issues affect the value of my home?

6/30/2020

If you suspect your home has foundation issues, it may seem scarier than it actually is. Sometimes, foundation issues are not progressive. This means any damage that has occurred won't worsen over time. Although this isn't always the case, an experienced home inspector and licensed Professional Engineer can help you determine the seriousness of foundation issues and what to do about them.

Mold and Moisture Testing

6/22/2020

The key to mold control is moisture control. If mold is a problem in your home, clean up the mold promptly and fix the water problem. It is important to dry water-damaged areas and items within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold growth. Also, high humidity in a basement is a common culprit for mold growth. This occurs when the AC is turned off and basements get very hot/humid or if a naturally damp basement does not have a dehumidifier installed and running during the summer months.

Everything You Need to Know About Carbon Monoxide

6/15/2020

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, poisonous gas that forms from incomplete combustion of fuels, such as natural or liquefied petroleum gas, oil, wood or coal. We recommend installing a carbon monoxide detector if you have appliances which burn fuel that produces carbon monoxide gas.

Facts and Figures

480 U.S. residents died between 2001 and 2003 from non-fire-related carbon-monoxide poisoning.
Most CO exposures occur during the winter months, especially in December (including 56 deaths, and 2,157 non-fatal exposures), and in January (including 69 deaths and 2,511 non-fatal exposures). The peak time of day for CO exposure is between 6:00 and 10:00 p.m.
Many experts believe that CO poisoning statistics understate the problem. Since the symptoms of CO poisoning mimic a range of common health ailments, it is likely that many mild to mid-level exposures are never identified, diagnosed, or accounted for in carbon monoxide statistics.
Out of all reported non-fire carbon-monoxide incidents, 89% or almost 9 out of 10 of them take place in a home.

Building Orientation for Optimum Energy

6/10/2020

Building orientation is the practice of facing a building to maximize certain aspects of its surroundings, such as street appeal, to capture a scenic view, for drainage considerations, etc. With rising energy costs, it’s becoming increasingly important for builders to orient buildings to capitalize on the Sun’s free energy. For developers and builders, orienting a new home to take advantage of the warmth of the Sun will increase the home's appeal and marketability. For homeowners, it will increase their indoor comfort and reduce their energy bills

Dangers of Aluminum Wiring in the Home

6/3/2020

We recommend that aluminum wiring in the home be repaired because of the fire hazards that it may create. Contact our Columbus home inspectors to discuss these dangers and what improvements can be made to improve your home's wiring.

Between approximately 1965 and 1973, single-strand aluminum wiring was sometimes substituted for copper branch-circuit wiring in residential electrical systems because of the sudden escalating price of copper. After a decade of use by homeowners and electricians, inherent weaknesses were discovered in the metal that lead to its disuse as a branch wiring material.

Abrasive Blasting for Mold Remediation

5/29/2020

Mold in the Home

Health concerns related to mold growth in the home have been featured heavily in the news. Mold, which can be found growing in the home, may cause issues ranging from itchy eyes, coughing, and sneezing given the proper conditions.

All mold needs to grow is moisture, oxygen, a food source, and a surface to grow on. It is important to understand that mold spores are commonly found naturally in the air; however, if spores land on a wet or damp spot indoors and begin growing excessively, they will lead to problems.

Mold can cause health problems if untreated. Here is what to look out for and how to get rid of it.

Do You Know the Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning?

1/7/2016

Now that that the winter temperatures have arrived, know the warning signs of Carbon Monoxide poisoning if you have gas burning appliances.

Do you know the symptoms of CO poisoning?

People –

Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Vomiting
Irregular breathing
Feeling tired or ill at home but fine away from home
Loss of consciousness and respiratory failure.

Buildings –

Foul-smelling or stale air
The smell of exhaust fumes
Large areas of condensation or water vapor on walls or windows

What’s the best prevention?

Be sure all fuel-burning equipment is installed and operated properly

Have equipment inspected annually by a qualified professional
Provide adequate ventilation in your home
Never burn charcoal indoors or in an enclosed space
Open your garage door before starting vehicles

The surest way to know if there is carbon monoxide in your home is to use a Carbon Monoxide detector. If you suspect CO poisoning or a natural gas leak, leave the building immediately and call 911.

Your safety matters to us!

Have a Question - Ask a Columbus Ohio Home Inspector

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