Heat pumps have 3 cycles, heat, cool and defrost. The defrost cycle temporarily reverses the heat cycle causing the coils to defrost. There are many reasons why a heat pump can cost up. Consult the course for the possible problems.
A dryer vent wall penetration is located too close to the AC condenser located outside. The fins on the coils which help to remove heat from the gasses are becoming clogged with lint from the dryer duct. This will reduce efficiency of the condenser.
Geothermal Heating and Cooling Systems
As a builder and now home inspector I am unfamiliar with Geothermal systems. The area I will be working in does utilize the system After reading the article it seems very logical to use a GT system. Excavation could be a big unknown is this area due to large boulders and root systems present in this forested volcanic area. With no availability of natural gas in this area GT is even more relevant especially the cost of propane.
"Check on Your HVAC Systems "
This is a very good general guide and maintenance guide for HVAC owners and can help HVAC owners start maintenance HVAC system themselves and what to do if something happen.
Looking for proper line set connections to the condenser unit. Both line sets, control wires and power wires are visible and properly connected and appear to be in good condition.
Central Air Conditioning system inspection.
All though it is recommended that an annual inspection be done by a trained professional there are some things that any homeowner can do to maintain the life and efficiency of their system. Cleaning the cover, coil and removing plants for several feet from around the unit can help. Covering the unit during the off season will also help keep the unit clean year round.
This is a 21 year old Lennox Pulse 21 High Efficiency Furnace. It is an updraft system. It is Natural Gas. The Line is stainless into balck Iron. It has a dirt leg and shut off properly installed. There is an electronic filter and a humidifier attached to the main trunk.
Renters Insurance
I read this article and it is very informative. I dont think people realize that there personal items aren’t covered and they might be liable for any medical injury in there rental.It is avery affordable peace of mind
Hi everyone,
I am completing my write an essay with photo assignment for the How to inspect HVAC Systems course. My Photo is of an older Gas fired Wall Heater located in the Hallway ( approx. center ) of an 1954 built 2 bedroom house. You can see the flip down access panel at the bottom with instructions on it on how to lite the pilot light, etc. The black knob on the left side serves as the on/off and thermostat switch.
Hi everyone,
I am completing my requested research assignment regarding something I have learned about Central Humidifiers for my How to inspect HVAC Systems course. Central Humidifier devices are typically attached to and integrated to the Central Forced air systems. They have several purposes such as supplementing additional humidity to Interior heating systems in dry arid environments and Heating systems that do not add humidity to the existing RH as a by product of their function.Image identifies a Gas Fired, Forced Air Furnace. PVC pipe at bottom represents drainage of condensate to outflow pipe extending 100 feet downslope from basement. The unit is a direct vent, upflow, single stage heating system. The shut off valve for gas-propane is identified by the red knob in the middle of the insulation covering, and the drip leg is located to the far left outside of the image. The 2.5 inch PVC pipe on the right is the fresh air feed that extends to the roof and ends at a U bend fitting. The left side PVC pipe is direct venting to the roof for combustion. The filter appears clean, and the condensation tubing appears clean and intact. The system appears in good condition.
This is an International Comfort Products, LLC electric heat pump, central air. 220 Volt with electrical disconnect present. The unit appears to be original, Manufactured 2012. The system appears to be in good condition, Note: The average life expectancy of condensing units in Florida is approximately 10 years. Capacity appears to be a 3.5 Ton unit, 25.7 AMP minimum supply service ampacity. 40 AMP maximum fuse or circuit breaker used. Condensate drain line(s) installed, and appears to be functioning properly.
The attached photo represents the interior portion of the HVAC system. It is a Bryant up flow air conditioner with electric heating elements installed. It was manufactured in 2003 and has been regularly maintained by a qualified technician and the homeowner replaces the filter every month. For technical details, please see the data plate. The system operates satisfactorily in both hot and cold modes. The heating elements energize and heat and the cold side discharges cold air. The cold air difference at the intake and discharge meet the 5-22 degree acceptable range. The system is also on a local power company on-demand system limiting the use remotely by the power company during high usage times. The feature results in a credit each month on the electricity bill.
A home inspector is required to visually inspect an HVAC system using normal operating controls, and describe the energy source, operating controls, system type, and any observed material defects.
Among the items required of a home inspector should be able to explain to a client are the heating system, heating method, system type, method of operation, how it should be maintained, and common issues associated with the type of system.
An inspector should be able to explain additional features of the system, including the defrost cycle. This is the topic of the article “Defrost Cycle of a Heat Pump” by Ben and Nick Gromicko. Here they explain the causes of frost and the mechanics of ridding the coils of frost. Among the possible causes of a malfunctioning defrost cycle (ice build-up evident on outdoor coils) are: reversing valve, damaged coil, wiring issue, bad thermostat, refrigerant leak, dirty coil, broken fan, fan blades installed incorrectly, or fan motor issues.
Homeowner Maintenance: Changing the HVAC filter
Believe it or not, many homeowners fail to regularly change their HVAC filter. It is quite important for the proper operation of the equipment as well as the health of the occupants. Many airborne irritants can be spread throughout a home via the HVAC system by a defective filter. Therefore, any tears, broken frame, or wetness, to mention a few defects should warrant filter replacement. Any activity, such as; construction, tending a garden, excessive wind storms can all result in additional dust, dirt, pollen, and foreign material entering the home and consequently the HVAC system. The frequency of replacement may be accelerated due to such activities. Having a pet may also increase the maintenance required due to dander and shedding. The filters range in price due to the degree of filtering and the filter material. There are washable and reusable options, but the caution is that they must be washed often and replaced in a dry condition. The regular replacement of your filter will improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and provide an enjoyable and healthy atmosphere for the home’s occupants.
How to Inspect HVAC Systems – Assignment
Description: Air handler, manufactured by Lennox. Model number: CBX32MV-048-230—6-06
Manufacture Date: March 2010
Based upon the model number, the air handler is a four ton unit. It is part of a split system and is located approximately 15ft from the condensing unit which is located outside the home on the north side of the dwelling. The suction line appears to be well insulted. The condensate line is also insulated, which is not required, but a good practice. The unit operated when using the thermostat as per normal operation. The input air and output air had a delta of 16℉ when measured at the return vent and exit vent in the kitchen.
I just reviewed the article entitled Home Inspection Equipment found in the Library of Inspection Articles. I found this article to be very helpful as a way to introduce the notion that a good inspector will utilize good tools. Tools can provide a number of advantages in adding value to a customer if they are used correctly. However, tools also add cost to an inspection, and it is up to the inspector to decide which tools are necessary and which are discretionary. I believe the region of the country where an inspector operates will have a significant impact on the tools deemed to be required. For instance, I’m in north Florida. In this region we rarely see (maybe never see) a furnace operated using natural gas. If natural gas (or propane) is used in a home, it is usually only for cooking with the odd fire place or water heater found on occasion. Consequently, carbon monoxide testing will not usually be needed. After inspecting homes for several years, I suspect that one will have developed a routine and preference for tools that provide the best inspections versus the associated costs.
Thermostat is in working order. No hotspots observed through thermal image. Actually cooling unit not inspected due to inaccessible space and stored items.
There are very basic and simple things one can do to promote a healthy air conditioning system is to change the air filter regularly. Another is to cover the unit in the winter to protect it from the elements. Thirdly, you can close the registers.
The air conditioning system in this home is a direct expansion, mechanical, gas-compression (or vapor-compression) refrigeration system. The attached picture is of the outside condenser unit. Also notice the condenser unit has an electrical quick disconnect that is within view. Inside the electrical box is a pull type fuse bock with 2 fuses.
Gene
Gene