This is a mock inspection I’m working on. Anyone have any thoughts on this observation? FYI the vents are within 6" of each other, and about 6" above the deck. I am not an inspector only a student. I’m using the InterNACHI checklist.
Heating system details
Heating system: High efficiency forced air furnace fueled by natural gas.
Method of inspection: Visually observed and operated using normal controls.
Observation: The home’s heating system was located in the crawlspace.
Material defect in need of correction: The furnace has a PVC exhaust and fresh air inlet stubbed through the floor systems rim board at the rear of the home. The inlet and outlet were observed in close proximity of each other, and at a minimal distance above the back deck which is concerning for a region that receives snowfall. This condition could be hazardous as exhaust gasses could re-enter the homes heating system through the fresh air inlet. The function of the heating system could also become compromised if the vents become restricted due to snowfall. Both conditions could potentially allow carbon monoxide to enter into the home’s interior causing an unsafe condition.
Recommendation: Further evaluation and repair/replacement by a licensed qualified HVAC contractor.
The Format and Content isn’t bad for a Newbie and a Mock Inspection/Report.
Your Narrative will/should improve with experience.
Recommend that you Google the Manufacturers Installation Manual for specifics, (some Manufacturers vary, but many are similar), regarding the clarences you inferred are a potential hazard.
Generally… Intake and Exhaust require a 12 inch separation (some with outlet direction diverter), and a height from Grade/Deck/etc… of 12 inches above the AVERAGE ANTICIPATED SNOWFALL.
Thank you sir,
I added this site to my favorites and will refer to it as needed. Would you deem this condition to be a Material defect if it was outside the regulations, or major, minor, ?
OK, thanks I’ve been struggling to distinguish between the different degrees of defects. This actually is on my house. I built the deck a year ago, lol. i shovel the snow away when it gets deep. thanks again enjoy your Sunday.
Feel free to post any pictures of systems that you need help with.
With that being said, when on an inspection, quality photos are key! Take more than you feel you need, and multiples of areas of concern from different angles, especially close-up and further back overviews of the section of home it resides in. (Yes, this helps with furnaces, water heaters, etc.) as you may be asked for these views when requesting help on this MB. A very key phot to get in the habit of, are ALL Data Plates of all Appliances that you observe. If unsure if it is legible/clear, take multiples. Photos are cheap… not like the old days of Polaroids and Film Developing!!
Another Tip for ya… go to the Forum Dashboard and fill out your Profile, being sure to include your Location. This really helps us to get you the best relevant information when reply to your questions.
Example: You stated above you deal with Snow. That was my very first question I intended to ask you.
I’ll work on the profile. as far as photos I definitely will when I get out in the field, maybe even video. I just haven’t been for this mock as its not required. Btw I’m in central Michigan. I’ll be posting more at this topic and everyone’s experience is greatly appreciated.
Remember… the more you practice, the better you’ll be.
Don’t worry about the “fancy, gimmicky stuff” just yet. You’ll have plenty of time for that carp later.
Focus, learn and MASTER the basics first. You’ll be glad you did.
Christopher, one good thing about my inspection software, it doesn’t categorize types of defects. Only two categories; Deficiency and for Information. “Deficiency” shows that there is a defective issue that needs further attention (evaluation, repair or replace etc.) but you don’t have to put into a “defect” category.
Yes, I find the Nachi checklist to be fairly basic. my descriptions are above what’s required to note for the mock, but I want to be informative to a client/ homebuyer. software will definitely speed things up too. I’m a dirt under my fingernails carpenter, not that great at typing.
Go by what the NACHI checklist wants you to fill in on their checklist for the Mocks, but in the real world, most clients only see “defect” or “deficiency”. They’ll be asking you what is a “material defect”, then your stuck with having to explain something to them that most likely doesn’t matter in the long run.
