Certified Home Inspections promise is to exceed the expectations of our client by performing a furnace inspection unlike our competition. Therefore, our highly trained and certified inspectors meticulously evaluate and test all of the components within the entire furnace system for functionality, efficiency, and safety. This article examines the process and major components included in Certifieds’ furnace inspection
Initially the inspector examines the exterior cabinet for evidence of rust, corrosion, or any physical damage or defects. Often times, the air conditioner condensate drain or refrigerant lines leak onto the furnace cabinet causing rust and damage to other parts. The gas supply pipe, furnace power source, and shutoff switch are very important aspects of the exterior cabinet inspection. Improperly wired switches or loose, leaky gas pipes are life threatening safety hazards frequently discovered by our inspectors. Other crucial components include the combustible air intake, hvac ductwork system, humidifier, zoning dampers and low-voltage controls, gas supply pipe, electrical/power supply and furnace exhaust. Improperly sloped or leaky exhaust pipes are safety hazards and can cause sickness/death by Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Finally, we shift our focus to the interior of the furnace. Upon removal of the front cover panel our inspector can determine the overall cleanliness and condition of the interior components, such as the blower/inducer fan, ignitor, electronic circuit board, and heat exchanger. Cracked heat exchangers can leak Carbon Monoxide and are very dangerous safety hazards. The identification tag, which can provide the inspector with valuable information like the size(btu’s) and age of the furnace, is normally located on the inner wall of the furnace cabinet. Our clients appreciate knowing this helpful information which enables them to budget for future expenses. After all, replacing a furnace, depending on the size and brand, can cost approximately $2,000 to $4,000.
Upon completion of the exterior and interior components inspection we can test the furnace for proper operation and efficiency. The final phase of the furnace inspection includes testing the thermostat and air flow pressure/temperature to the bedroom registers. Frequently, our inspectors discover disconnected or leaky hvac ductwork limiting heat flow to specific areas of the house causing cold spots. Finally, we complete the inspection by observing and listening to the furnace for proper operation as it runs through and properly completes all the cycles from beginning to end. After all, the furnace and heating system are crucial to maintaining a safe, healthy, warm, dry, and comfortable home.