In New Mexico the climate is arid and I am commonly asked to make sure all windows and doors have good seals to prevent any unwanted air loss during the summer season while running the air conditioning system. With an IR camera it is possible to see if any windows or doors are letting air escape.
The attached photo is a 4 year old Bosch dishwasher. The dishwasher had a high loop installed in the drain line at the time of the inspection. The high loop is designed to prevent wastewater from contaminating the dishwasher. The dishwasher was operated through the rinse and hold cycle and appeared to be in serviceable condition at the time of the inspection.
Water damage is the first sign of mold. Finding moisture is the first step in early mold prevention. High levels of moisture that go untreated are the main cause of harmful mold growth in a home. A Pin Type moisture meter can be used to measure the moisture content of a materials surface. While in this mode, the meter can measure the amount of moisture on a material.
The attached photo is dishwasher.The dishwasher was operated through a normal cycle and appeared to be in serviceable condition at the time of the inspection.The dishwasher had an air gap device installed in the drain line at the time of the inspection. The air gap is designed to prevent wastewater from contaminating the dishwasher.
The fridge should be about 35-38F and the freezer about 0F. Using an infrared spot thermometer would be a good way to check the interior temps. You should check the door seals, inside wall surface and the racks for any damage.
An IR camera is an excellent option for determining the presence of moisture intrusion in a building envelope or a leak in a kitchen or bathroom. You can identify the source of a existing water damage by following it to the source whether it is the roof, the plumbing system or an appliance. It can be quickly identified and then verified with a moisture meter.
This photo is of a built in microwave. This microwave is ducted or vented to the outside of the home. I verified by looking at the roof outside above this area and found a through roof vent. The seams in this duct were sealed with 3M aluminum tape.
In the gallery image labeled oven test the inspector is testing the oven temperature with a probe. The digital probe is reading an actual temperature of 371 degrees but the oven is set to 350 degrees. Calibration of the oven is needed and repair is recommended.
The dishwasher air gap should be installed between dishwasher and sink with one side connected to the drain line of the dishwasher and the other side above P trap or garbage disposal to allow proper operation of the air gap
Dishwasher is a GE that has a properly opening soap dispenser while in operation. Racks show no signs of rust and/or damage. The drain line was properly connected to an air gap that it connected at the garage Disposer above the p trap.
Leaking Septic Field
Although inspecting a septic system is beyond the scope of InterNACHI standards of practice, and should be declared within Report, glaring defects such as an over flowing septic tank should be noted within report. While inspector the putter course the inspector noticed pooling water around what appears to be the septic tank access. Evaluationand or correction by a licensed contractor.
Septic System Inspections
A septic system receives, treats and disposes of unwanted wastewater and solids from a buildings plumbing system.
If a home inspector chooses to go beyond the standards of practice here are a few tips to consider while inspecting a septic system: Only bath tissue can be flushed down the toilet. Tampons, paper towels, cigarette butts and diapers should be put in the trash. Household chemicals such as gasoline, paint, medication, antifreeze and pesticides can damage bacteria in the septic system and should never be flushed or dumped down the sink. Detergents and bleach can enter the plumbing system in moderate amounts.
Cars should not be driven on or near the drainfield. Their weight can unknowingly damage subterranean piping.
Only grass should be planted above the septic tank and drainfield. Roots from trees and large shrubs can cause unseen damage.
No one should ever dig or build on top of the drainfield.
All water drainage from rainwater, sump pumps, or any surface water should be diverted away from the drainfield. An over-saturated drainfield can retard the water treatment process and cause plumbing fixtures to back up.
An easy way to prolong a septic systems life and prevent a very costly replacement is to fix leaky faucets and toilets immediately. Any household water waste should be avoided. Taking shorter showers and not using a garbage disposal are ways to limit water u
The shingles on the roof are worn away in various sections of the roof. As a result the roof sheathing is exposed to the natural elements. There is a grewtrr chance of rainwater infiltrating the house without shingles in place to cover the roof sheathing. I would suggest that a roofing contractor evaluate the roof.
I recently read an article about central vacuum systems. A central vacuum system (sometimes called a whole-house vacuum system) is a cleaning device installed throughout a building that can be found in the basement or garage. Central vacuum systems are long lasting, built into the home, quiet, and hylo-allergenic. There are three types of central vacuum cleaners: cyclonic, inverted filter, and disposable bag.
The inspector shall inspect household appliances to determine whether the appliances are significantly deficient using normal operating controls. Inspectors will not operate systems or appliances if they have been excluded in the scope of services disclosure or if there is a risk to the property being inspected. Inspectors will first review the system to be operated and use professional judgment as to whether it is safe to operate using normal operating controls and report accordingly.
Although multiple items and situations are allowed be excluded, many inspectors opt to check a few things for their customers that are beyond the minimum scope requirements. We test microwave ovens for leakage, for example, and some inspectors offer a service that checks for manufacturer recalls on the homes appliances, usually for an additional fee.
Inspectors dont do troubleshooting. If the appliance is not functioning properly or not functional at all, we simply note the nature of the defect and recommend further evaluation and repair.
Date: Monday, May 28, 2018
Address: 123 Fake Street. Raleigh, NC
While inspecting the exterior of the home at 123 Fake street in Raleigh, I noticed ponding in the rear of the yard. The pond was the septic field having overflow problems. Raw sewage was exposed to the environment creating a biological hazard. I recommend a septic service to remedy this issue immediately.
Date: Monday, May 28, 2018
The article titled “Marketing Tip for Inspectors: Have more than one weapon and use the right one for the job.”, helped to explain how to maintain a satisfied customer and good business practices. The article was enjoyable and helpful to me because of the detailed instructions on how to connect with the customer and meeting their specific needs. Each customer is different in their own way but have similar needs and wants. We can help to satisfy those needs and wants through the services we provide.
This outdoor grill station has built in appliances consisting of an ice maker and a refrigerator. At either end of the counter top are GFCI outlets and one end has a light switch for the deck lighting. The electrical circuits for the appliances, outlets and lights are to comply to the same regulations as the principal residence. Each appliance is to have a dedicated circuit. The outlets are to have a dedicated circuit.
Septic systems are beyond the Standards of Practice for a certified InterNachi Home Inspector. This can be offered to the client as an additional service. The expectation of the client and actual service provided should be clearly defined prior to the inspection. Areas beyond a visual inspection or that may require in depth examination should be referred to a professional.