Dryer outlet in foundation wall - InspectionNews

Mr. Davidson · #1 (**permalink**) 10-16-2007, 11:10 PM

I am new to inspections. Just wanted to know if this dryer outlet in the wall is o.k? I also have 2 outlets that are exposed in the basement, anything i missed?

Jon Randolph · #2 (**permalink**) 10-17-2007, 04:45 AM

I would not have a problem with the dryer outlet attached to the foundation wall, but I would recommend that the romex be protected in conduit.
I don't like the plastic dryer vents and would suggest either the foil type or the aluminum flex (preferrably the aluminum flex).

I would mention that they may have to change their dryer cord if they have a 4 prong plug now.

I would recommend that the sump pump not be protected by a GFCI as the pump starting can trip the GFCI and leave you with water problems. The outlet should be grounded and all other basement outlets should be protected by a GFCI.

Missing outlet covers need replacement and the "handman" extension cords are a fire and hock hazard.

It's hard to tell from the photo, but it looks like the untreated floor joist may be in contact with the masonry foundation.

Rick Cantrell · #3 (**permalink**) 10-17-2007, 04:48 AM

Dryer outlet: No, exposed unprotected wire (cable).
Also what size wire is that?
GFCI outlet: No, needs a cover on the box.
Last photo: No, needs cover.

Mr. Davidson · #4 (**permalink**) 10-17-2007, 05:00 AM

Rick,

I don't know what size the wire is for the outlet, what is recommended?

Jerry Peck · #5 (**permalink**) 10-17-2007, 05:20 AM

Mr. No First Name Davidson,

All boxes need covers.

DO NOT USE *plastic* OR *foil* dryer vent connectors NEITHER *is allowed*.

The NM cable to the dryer outlet needs to protected from physical damage.

The sump pump IS REQUIRED to have GFCI protection, do not recommend that GFCI be removed.

That one 'extension cord' looks like lamp cord and that is a no-no.

What did the yellow extension cord go to? Extension cords are not allowed to replace permanent wiring methods, if it went to something 'permanent' then a circuit needs to be extended over to whatever it was.

You would need to have at least #10 going to the dryer outlet (30 amps), and, if the circuit ran very far, you might want to use #8 to reduce voltage drop problems.