thanks for the responses. it's not a comcast issue. We unplugged all comcast lines. Just any piece of equipment (not necessarily a comcast box), and the same 8 volts is read. I assume if this reputable electric company couldn't figure it out, I'm sure my layman's approach to describing the problem here isn't exactly helpful. but thought i would give it a shot. the "issue" was occuring all over the house, not necessarily isolated to one circuit or one piece of equipment.
