Advanced Technology Makes Our Inspections Better

Advanced Home Inspections uses cutting edge technology inspection tools for the most thorough inspection possible.

For instance, we use the Ideal Model 65-165 circuit analyzer to test all electrical outlets. This device is far superior to what most inspectors use when performing electrical circuit analysis. Here is just one example of why this is important to you as a potential home buyer.

In the picture on the left, this is a typical Ground Fault Circuit Interrupt (GFCI) tester (yellow arrow) used by most inspectors. Notice it is indicating a good outlet. However, you can see the Ideal 65-165 has caught a False Ground (center diode showing "F"). This is a wiring trick that will not be caught by most electrical testers. Someone has bonded the neutral to the ground at this outlet.

As well as finding this problem, the tester also shows simulated amp loads at 12 amps, 15 amps and 20 amps, to determine voltage drop on the circuit.

Amp loads represent the electrical draw of anything connected to that circuit in order to operate it. It may be a lamp or a window air conditioner; each drawing a certain level of amps in order to function. As amps flow increase, voltage in the line many times will drop. The NEC recommends no more than 5% voltage drop under full amp draw for a circuit. And any reading below 108volts can lead to premature failure of appliances and possible fire.

In this case, this circuit under a 20 amp load is experiencing a 19.7% drop in line voltage, down to 95.4 volts. In other words, this means an appliance drawing 20 amps is being starved for voltage.

We also offer Forward Looking Infrared (FLIR) Thermal Imaging upon request. This service is a separate charge from a normal home inspection fee. Thermal imaging, shows hidden problems such as moisture, missing insulation, and electrical defects that go unseen by the naked eye in a normal inspection. Under certain circumstances FLIR can show the presence of termite activity.

You walk into a home and look at a wall over a sliding glass door (photo on left) you see a wall. With FLIR Thermal Imaging we see much more, in this case missing insulation. It is your clue that further investigation is needed to determine the cause.
 

You can't see the moisture between the floors. You can't see it, but FLIR can. Moisture build-up can lead to mold infestation and the slow deterioration of the structure.
 

Here, not visible to the naked eye, an otherwise normal looking circuit breaker is overheating. This would go missed in a normal panel inspection, but not with FLIR.
 

Even this older Fuse panel is showing an overheating circuit. With these thermal photos the electrician can quickly find the problem, and make repairs in a shorter amount of time saving you money.
 

And you wonder why your heating bills are so high? Look at where much of your heat is going. Home energy audits available. On the right The FLIR BCAM SD Thermal imaging camera.
 

We also use the TPI 775 combo carbon monoxide and combustible gas detector to check all visible gas connections for leaks. The carbon monoxide detector is used to check proper function of furnaces and gas appliances. TPI is the gold standard for CO and combustible gas detection. It will detect combustible gas levels as low as 30 parts per million.
 

Moisture in a home provides the ideal environment for mold growth. Many times you cannot see the moisture. The FLIR can show us where to scan further with the moisture meter.

We use a Delmhorst J-2000 moisture meter to determine active leaks and moisture build-up in home surfaces. It enables the inspector to check and detect moisture levels in wood, concrete, EIFS, sheetrock, and other materials commonly found in a home.