40 Hour Property and Building Inspection Practice Test

When encountering a strong odor in a vacant home, what is a safety concern related to running the dishwasher?

1. It may cause a plumbing backflow

2. It may lead to an electric element explosion

3. It may overheat the water supply

4. It may damage the dishwasher

The correct answer is: It may lead to an electric element explosion

When encountering a strong odor in a vacant home, running the dishwasher can pose a safety concern primarily because of the potential for an electric element explosion. Dishwashers utilize heating elements to heat water and to dry dishes. If there is a malfunction, especially in a vacant home where maintenance may have been neglected, there could be risks associated with electrical components. In scenarios where strong odors are present, they might indicate stagnant water, possible mold, or even the deterioration of electrical parts. If the dishwasher's electrical components are compromised—such as frayed wires or corroded connections—this can result in overheating or even short-circuiting when powered up, thereby leading to an explosion hazard of the electric element. Other options present possible concerns, like plumbing issues or water damage, but they do not directly relate to the potential for an explosion from the electric elements under malfunctioning conditions. Therefore, the significant risk posed by the electric element in the presence of many unknown factors in an unattended space makes this concern particularly pertinent.