Inspecting furnaces and AC's

[Nick Gromicko]

www.nachi.org/education.htm

[Mark Edinger]

I guess I gotta be careful what I post here. Some people get all bent out of shape. Sometimes its easier to get an answer if you ask a question like you don't know much about a subject, and sometimes it back fires and people get all excited about suing and what not. People can say what they want, but avoid answering a simple question.
I made it clear I wasn't finished with my education. I figured I could use this board to bounce things off of others with some experience, so I could learn something.
Ill be careful, sorry if I offended anyone.

[Billy Boerner]

Mark,

No one is offended. These old hats are well experienced and been around awhile however just like you they started off learning as well. These guys are simply stating make sure you get the training before ever doing your first home inspection for a couple or person that's getting ready to blow 100k +. This is serious business and once you miss something it could cost you your shirt. Take your time, educate yourself and if you need help "ALWAYS ASK" no matter if your heckled or not. These guys will be behind you every step of the way.

[Wayne B. Wilson]

Mark ask away , Do not let some scare you away. A lot of pro's here and some are a little gruff to say it gently . some answers will make you feel a little dumb at times just ignore it. You can learn at lot here . even the most season HI learn and get refreshed even if they do not admit it . If you do not see something new or learn something new it has been a bad day .

[David A. Andersen]

Home Inspectors and HVAC Inspections
Should Home Inspectors Inspect HVAC Equipment?

http://www.midtninspections.com/blog?page=4

My perception of the issue...

[Wayne B. Wilson]

Very good as always David

[William J. Decker]

I describe the type of furnace (Conventional, Cat 1, Cat 4), determine the date of manufacture, the output BTUs, operate it, look at the flame when the blower kicks in (indication of leaks in the heat exchanger) note the flame color (adjusted or not), check the filter and type.

I usually include a picture of the furnace with the electrical and gas shut-offs indicated with arrows.

Then I explain that the filter should be changed everu 30 days, the type of filter to be used (Not the filtreet or 90 day filters, just the plain blue fiberglass filters. I hate the cartridge type filters because the obstruct the return air flow).

I tell them to get the furnace maintained once a year.

Also, in new construction, there is often a lot of drywall dust and sawdust, which should be cleaned.

Check the flue pipe, etc.