Mechanical Components Included in a Professional Home Inspection
Outside of the structural components of a house, the other aspect of the building inspectors evaluates the mechanical components of the home, including the electrical system, plumbing system, and heating and cooling systems.
Electrical
The electrical system of a home is a vital part of any home inspection. This emphasis is due in large part to the potential safety and fire hazards that a defective or faulty electrical system poses. A home inspector is not an electrician, so much of the electrical inspection is limited to a visual evaluation of the various electrical elements.
The inspector first identifies whether the electrical supply is an overhead or underground system and locates its attachment or entry to the home. He will locate electrical meter and observe its condition. Inside he will locate the main circuit panel and the main disconnect nearby. The circuit panel should be accessible and a visual evaluation of main circuit wiring and panel condition is made.
During the interior inspection he will examine outlets and fixtures, especially locating GFCI, ground fault circuit interrupter, outlets near plumbing fixtures. Any defects discovered in the electrical system may indicate the need for further evaluation by a licensed electrician.
Plumbing
The plumbing system will be either a municipal supply or well. Many general home inspectors do not examine the physical components of a well. You might ask if this will be covered in your home inspection.
All pipes that can be visually evaluated are. A professional pluming inspector will note outdated plumbing materials, such as galvanized pipe. Any leaks will be evaluated and reported. The main water shut off is located as well.
During the interior inspection, the inspector will evaluate the flow and function of faucets, the operation of drains and the flush mechanisms of all toilets. Hot and cold configurations will be observed as well.
Most of the elements of a plumbing system lie behind walls and inside floors and ceilings, but a home inspector may be able to uncover clues that reveal the overall condition of a home’s plumbing system.
Heating and Cooling
Heating and cooling systems are either centralized or localized. Most systems today are centralized, especially heating systems. The inspector will note the make and condition of the unit, as well as fuel source. In the case of a cooling system, he will inspect the unit for signs of coolant leaks and defects. A HVAC system’s main access panels should open and close easily.
Ductwork is usually metal and observed for integrity. Within the home, a heating and cooling source is located in each room and the various units may be turned on and checked for proper function.
First Choice Inspectors, LLC is located in Chicago Illinois carefully inspects all your home’s components. We provide full-service home and commercial inspections and deliver a comprehensive, concise final inspection report. Our home inspectors serve Chicago and the surrounding area. Click here to request a quote or schedule an inspection.