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Master electrical service systems from transformer to panelboard. Learn service drop vs. lateral configurations, clearance requirements, voltage/amperage ratings, and how to identify typical defects during inspections.

Show Notes (Full):
Episode Overview

Welcome to the National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast! This episode covers the complete electrical service system - the critical entry point where utility power enters a residential structure.

What You'll Learn:

This comprehensive training covers everything home inspectors need to know about electrical service systems:

Service System Components:

• Service drop (overhead) vs. service lateral (underground) configurations
• Service mast, service head (gooseneck), and drip loop functions
• Service entrance conductors and meter base installation
• Service equipment and feeder conductor identification
• Grounding electrode conductor (GEC) connection points

Critical Clearance Requirements:

• 10 feet minimum above ground/pedestrian walkways
• 12 feet minimum above residential driveways
• 18 feet minimum above public streets
• 22.5 feet above swimming pools (plus 10-foot perimeter)
• 3-8 feet above roofs (depending on slope and configuration)
• 3 feet from windows, doors, decks, and balconies

Service Ratings and Capacity:

• Minimum 240V single-phase service requirement
• 100-amp minimum for modern single-family homes
• How to determine service amperage from components
• Service load calculation basics
• Identifying mismatched service upgrades

Service Equipment:

• Main disconnect requirements and the "rule of six"
• Service equipment types: breakers, fuses, and switches
• Split-bus panelboard configurations
• Manufactured home service requirements

Typical Defects to Report:

• Service drop conductors in tree limbs
• Damaged conductor insulation
• Inadequate drip loops
• Clearance violations
• Loose or deteriorated meter bases
• Water infiltration points
• Mismatched service upgrades

IRC 2018 Code References: E3405, E3602, E3603.4, E3604, E3607, E3608, E3609, E3610, E3611, E3703, E3705.7, E3907, G2411

Why This Matters:

Understanding electrical service systems is fundamental to home inspection. Service defects can create fire hazards, electrocution risks, and inadequate power supply issues. This episode provides the technical knowledge to confidently evaluate service systems and communicate findings to clients.

Study Tips:

• Review clearance measurements multiple times - these are commonly tested
• Practice identifying service amperage in the field
• Learn to distinguish service drops from service laterals
• Understand the difference between service equipment and panelboards

Intro

This episode is brought to you by GetSync.pro

This episode is hosted by Charlie Bellefontaine of Chicagoland Home Inspectors

For complete training with visual materials, practice exams, and certification support, visit nhiexamprep.com

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