Sediment traps for natural gas or LP fired equipment help reduce the possibility of solids in the fuel such as iron filings from entering the tolerance sensitive parts of the combustion device. While it is a good idea to have sediment traps on all natural gas or LP fired equipment, 2018 IRC G2419.4 does not require sediment traps for illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces or outdoor grills.
A frost free hose spigot is necessary in climates where the temperature can be below freezing. It is recommended that homeowners drain their outdoor spigots prior to freezing temperatures to prevent water inside the spigot and pipe near the spigot freezing and creating a leak. The frost free spigot prevents a leak based on it’s design of not keeping water inside the pipe near the end of the spigot and thus preventing a freezing issue inside the pipe.
A frost free hose spigot is necessary in climates where the temperature can be below freezing. It is recommended that homeowners drain their outdoor spigots prior to freezing temperatures to prevent water inside the spigot and pipe near the spigot freezing and creating a leak. The frost free spigot prevents a leak based on it’s design of not keeping water inside the pipe near the end of the spigot and thus preventing a freezing issue inside the pipe.
Hot water Heater, some t&p Devices that i have seen on inspection seems to be leaking on top around the threaded part of the device without the presure being high enough to make the T&P device to discharge . i reported it but i bet the under side of the T&P was corroded where it screw into the tank.
T&P valves / if a t&p valve fails to operate when it is needed the results can be catastrophic. pressure will rise and build up in the water tank until the temperature starts to the boiling point of superheated water to air and causing an instantaneous Explosion of steam, this explosion is known to cause Death…
The discharge pipe for the TPR valve installed on this water heater has come loose. The required piping installed to terminate within 6" of the floor is to prevent hot scalding water and steam from harming a human or pet.
The article describes the need for the temperature relief valve, and the requirements involving the discharge piping. PVC and other non approved materials should not be used in the construction of the discharge pipe.
This is a water heater, Made by State. It is a 40 Gallon water heater, It has both earthquake straps installed, it has a CPVC TPR line installed. The water heater is a 2011 with Copper lines going into the home.
The water heater TPR valve shown has a drain tube that has multiple issues. The flexible tube is bent which could cause restriction to steam trying to escape if valve opened. The end if the tube is threaded which could be plugged. It is also directed upward. All of these could be dangerous if the relief valve opened to discharge steam and the pressure was not allowed to escape.
In the article Water Quality Testing for Home Inspectors, the author describes water contaminants and and pollutants as chlorine, lead, and coliform bacteria. There are potable test kits for on site testing at home and tests which require samples to be taken and sent to labs. Since all water has some impurities, it is a good idea to test water annually.
While inspecting the water heater, I noticed several things in need of correction. First of all,the supply lines are only 1/2 inch CPVC. Also, it does not have an extension tube installed.There is not enough clearance in ANY direction, and there is no drain in the closet. No pan under the water heater.
During inspections,I try to look for the temperature settings at the water heater. If the water is set above 120 degrees, there is greater risk for scalding and also,it’s not as energy conservative. Also, I try to inquire and look for anti-scalding ports on showers/tubs. More than 2,000children are scalded each year.
Kitec fitting were originally installed for a non corrosive fitting in a lot of houses in the mid 90’s to it’s recall in 2005. The fittings were prone to dezincifization. The manufacturer and some builders were targets of massive lawsuits. It is recommended if you have these fittings in your home they be replaced. They can leak or burst which can cost thousands to repair.
The trap shown here is a p-trap. The drain functioned properly and can smell no sewer gas. There are no indications of leaking or seal degradation. It is relatively new plumbing so see no inherent problems for the occupancy of the house.
Inspection & Writing Assignment
The water heater in my home is brand new and has been installed professionally by a licensed plumbing contractor. The T&P valve is installed properly and it is at 6 inches off the floor as required to prevent plash back that can cause serious burns. The water temperature is at 120 degrees F as required.
The pool information was very helpful and contained a lot of information. I am very familiar with pool equipment and filters. The sand filter is the most common filtration system by far than any other system. I’ve owned many pools and hot tubs throughout my adult life. Changing the cartridge filters monthly is the proper way of keeping your system clean.
According to the Healthy Homes, Part 9: Plumbing Course, good drainage configurations and connections, together with appropriate vent sizing and placement to fit the release of gases and proper materials, solders and piping diameters all serve to facilitate a safe and sanitary plumbing system.
The dishwasher drain (DW) line was observed without an intermediary anti-siphon device, also known as an “air gap”. This condition can result in increased hazardous risks to sanitation due to cross-contamination through reverse suction flow. An unknown level of increased Health and Financial risk can be assumed without further inspection. A qualified specialist, e.g. licensed Plumbing Contractor is recommended for prompt
investigation and corrective repair as needed.
