HVAC here we come! This one will be more challenging for me for sure!
Starting the course today.
Hey everyone! Starting the hvac course! Looking forward to it!
I took the HVAC class a our local community college last year. I look forward to seeing the difference in inspecting and repairing.
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View Question
To successfully complete this course, you must write two essays.
This course page contains instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection, taking inspection images, using checklists, and writing a report.
This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.
The second essay is described on the next course page.
In relation to this inspection and writing assignment:
- INSPECTION: Perform a visual-only inspection according to the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. Inspect a system or component that was covered in the course and is directly related to a heating and cooling system.
- IMAGES: During the inspection, take several inspection images of that system or component. Use your phone, mobile device, or digital camera. It can either be in good condition or have a defect.
- OBSERVATIONS: Make observations and take notes while inspecting. Use the InterNACHI® Home Inspection Standards of Practice to guide your inspection. Use your own inspection software or InterNACHI's inspection checklist.
- ESSAY: Write and submit an essay describing your observations and the inspection images. Upload an inspection image along with the essay.
For example, you may inspect the heating system at your house or a friend's house. You may inspect the thermostat or air filter. You may inspect an air conditioner unit that you see from a sidewalk. Take several inspection images while performing the inspection. Make observations. Take a lot of notes. Then, prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.
This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.
Your essay must meet the following criteria:
- It must be written in English.
- It must be at least 80 words in length.
- It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.
- It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected.
- It must be submitted with an inspection image.
You will submit your essay in the box titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, staff will review and mark it.
Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.
I inspected an air conditioner unit from sidewalk. I observed exterior condition and surrounding environment according to the InterNACHI standard of practices. like I was looking for: 1.Debris and Blockages: These can restrict airflow, impacting the unit's efficiency. Ensuring the area around the unit is clear for at least 1-2 feet on all sides). 2.Plants or structures: Consider if plants or structures are too close, potentially blocking airflow or causing shading issues. 3. Assess the Unit's Physical Condition: Dents, rust, or any signs of damage to the unit's casing or fan). 4. Level ground: Ensuring the unit was sitting on a level surface. An uneven base can affect its stability and functionality). 5.Cleanliness of fins: The fins of the condenser coil should be relatively clean and free of debris. 6. Airflow and Heat Release: If the unit is running, you should feel air blowing out from the top or side. If there's no airflow, the unit may not be working correctly and When the unit is running, the air coming out should be warmer than the ambient temperature, indicating it's releasing heat.After observing all above I could not find any deficiencies.
A member just sent in a great essay response! Check it out:
View Question
To successfully complete this course, you must write two essays.
This course page contains instructions for the first essay, which involves performing a home inspection, taking inspection images, using checklists, and writing a report.
This assignment may take 8 hours to complete.
The second essay is described on the next course page.
In relation to this inspection and writing assignment:
- INSPECTION: Perform a visual-only inspection according to the Home Inspection Standards of Practice. Inspect a system or component that was covered in the course and is directly related to a heating and cooling system.
- IMAGES: During the inspection, take several inspection images of that system or component. Use your phone, mobile device, or digital camera. It can either be in good condition or have a defect.
- OBSERVATIONS: Make observations and take notes while inspecting. Use the InterNACHI® Home Inspection Standards of Practice to guide your inspection. Use your own inspection software or InterNACHI's inspection checklist.
- ESSAY: Write and submit an essay describing your observations and the inspection images. Upload an inspection image along with the essay.
For example, you may inspect the heating system at your house or a friend's house. You may inspect the thermostat or air filter. You may inspect an air conditioner unit that you see from a sidewalk. Take several inspection images while performing the inspection. Make observations. Take a lot of notes. Then, prepare to communicate your observations in written form. This will be your essay.
This inspection and writing assignment is very similar to what a home inspector does during a home inspection--performing an inspection, studying and referring to and applying a Standards of Practice, taking inspection images, making observations, describing components, determining the condition of those components, formulating opinions, making recommendations to correct (if needed), proposing the implication of not making corrections to a defect (if observed), writing notes, and communicating observations in written form.
Your essay must meet the following criteria:
- It must be written in English.
- It must be at least 80 words in length.
- It must be written at a minimum 4th-grade level.
- It must sufficiently comment upon the system or component inspected.
- It must be submitted with an inspection image.
You will submit your essay in the box titled “Your Essay.” You will also upload your inspection image. Once you submit your essay, staff will review and mark it.
Please continue with the course after submitting your essay. If the essay does not meet the criteria, you'll be notified by email to rewrite the essay.
During the exterior inspection, the outdoor HVAC compressor unit was observed to be significantly surrounded by dense vegetation. This condition severely impedes its efficiency and longevity, as HVAC compressors require adequate airflow around all sides to properly dissipate heat and function effectively. When vegetation encroaches, it restricts crucial airflow, forcing the system to work harder, consume more energy, and potentially leading to premature component failure. A minimum horizontal clearance of 18 to 24 inches (approximately 45-60 cm) should be maintained on all sides of the outdoor unit, including from the house, fences, and dense landscaping. It is strongly recommended that all surrounding vegetation be trimmed back or removed to establish these necessary clearances. This will ensure proper airflow, enhance the unit's operational efficiency, extend its service life, and provide adequate access for future servicing and maintenance.