It looks like back stabbed connections strike again. the fact that the box is in a brick rather than in something combustible is some comfort but I don't know how close to combustion temperatures browned neutral wires indicate. I will either re-wire or replace back stabbed devices as I'm able to gain access. Some outlets are behind large heavy furniture.
Two of the 4 known outlets on this circuit are the ones that have the highest loads, mostly electric lawn mower and occasional portable air compressor. It's a 15 amp circuit - thought it was 20 amp but nope - so it wouldn't be hard to load in excess of 80% of rated amps. The only other significant load I can think of in the house is a laser printer. Those draw quite a bit of power when printing but the load is brief, one or two sheets of paper. The kitchen appliances are all on 20 amp circuits but I don't know how they're wired, back stabbed or not.
Reply With Quote