Inspection Focus
Heating and cooling inspections are visual. Weather permitting, we will operate both the heating and a/c units in their respective modes. We will use normal controls and evaluate how well the system is performing its intended function.
Heating Operation
The heating unit may not be tested at this time if temperature conditions do not allow the system to be operated normally (i.E. During warm weather months we will not operate the heating system). Systems are not dismantled. The system type (i.E. Forced air, hydronic, convective) and fuel type (i.E. Gas, ail, electric) will be reported.
Exhaust System
Exhaust systems are inspected to determine if combustion gases are properly vented to the outdoor atmosphere. Separated or rusted vent pipes and / or negative slope are potentially dangerous.
Distribution
Conditioned air should be present in all interior rooms. Rooms without conditioned air sources should be reported. Balancing of conditioned air is beyond the scope of the inspection.
Filter
A clean filter is helpful for proper operation of heating units. Dirty filters cause poor circulation, waste energy, can be unhealthy and should be cleaned / replaced often.
A/C Operation
A/C units are not operated when outdoor temperatures are below 65 degrees, since damage may result and compressor warranties may become void. A properly operating unit delivers cool air across the coil.
Fuel Storage Tank / Fuel Lines
If the system has a fuel storage tank, it should be reported. If the tank has been abandoned, any evidence of its presence should be reported. Abandoned tanks should be removed. Fuel lines will be defined as gas or oil and reported.
Heat Exchanger
The view of a heat exchanger is often concealed by design. A complete evaluation can only be achieved by dismantling the unit, which is beyond the scope of this inspection.
Humidifier
Humidifiers require constant maintenance and often become covered by lime deposits which can cause them to become inoperable within short periods of time.