What Are GFCI Outlets?

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What is GFCI? GFCI is a ground fault circuit interrupter. It is a device typically incorporated into an electric outlet or circuit breaker. The device will detect an unintentional electrical path between the power source and a grounded object.…

Why You Need a Home Inspection

If you're wondering if you need a home inspection, I'm here to tell you that the answer is ABSOLUTELY YES. Let's look into why a home inspection is so important in the home purchasing process. Knowledge A home inspection may be the only insight…

Does Your Roof Chimney Need a Cricket?

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What is a cricket? A cricket is a double triangle structure located on a roof behind the chimney. Below is a typical cricket. What does a cricket do? A cricket continues the slope (and thus flow of water) of the roof down. It prevents…

Deck Joist Hangers

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Building or Updating Your Deck? Whether you are planning on tackling that deck project yourself or hiring someone, make certain correct construction practices are being used. You don't want to find out the hard way that substandard building…

Fireplace Maintenace and Safety

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Fireplaces and Wood Stoves It's late October here in Arkansas and getting to be that time of year homeowners want to get that cozy fire going in the fireplace or wood stove. Before you do, make certain you are knowledgeable about your fireplace…

Whole House Attic Fans

What do you need to know about whole house attic fans? Many older homes featured whole house attic fans as an efficient means of cooling the home on cool evenings. In addition, they provided the home with fresh air. These fans can still…

Septic Systems: Homebuyer’s Guide

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What is a Septic System One in every five homes feature a septic system, and if you are buying a home in a rural area there's a good chance that home has a septic system. If the home is not connected to a local sewer system, then it will…

AC Air Filters

One of the most important components of your home's HVAC system is the AC air filter. Make sure you know where these are located in your home. There may be only one, or there may be more depending on how large your system is, or if you have…

Spa Tub Maintenance

Spa tubs are not maintenance free and are often the source of issues home inspectors find. Hopefully, your spa tub is equipped with a panel (like the one in the photo) to access the whirlpool pump and plumbing. Often, these panels are located…

Dishwasher High Loop

What is a dishwasher high loop? Above you can see the high loop in the photo on the right. In the left photo, there is no high loop. The line in both photos is the drain line from the dishwasher. It typically connects to the sink plumbing…