National Home Inspector Exam Prep Podcast

04 - Inspecting Air Conditioning Systems

Charles Bellefontaine Season 2 Episode 4

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Master visual inspection and operational testing of cooling systems, including safe operating conditions and temperature-drop measurements.

Show Notes:

Episode Overview:
Learn the two main inspection tasks: visual inspection and operating the system via thermostat. Covers access panels, homeowner-serviceable parts, safety considerations, when NOT to operate systems (disrepair, unfavorable conditions), operating condition requirements (temperature ranges, cautions below ~60°F), stabilization time (10-20 minutes), and temperature-drop measurements with diagnostic limitations.

What You'll Learn: • Visual inspection procedures and safety considerations • When inspectors may choose not to operate a system • Operating condition requirements (temperature, weather) • Stabilization time for accurate results (10-20 minutes) • Temperature-drop measurements: normal range and limitations • What is typically in/out of scope per standards

Key Takeaways: ✓ Perform safe visual inspections of indoor and outdoor components ✓ Know when to operate or defer testing ✓ Understand temperature-drop measurements and their limitations

IRC Code References: IRC 2018 Chapter 14; InterNACHI/ASHI Standards of Practice

Study Tips: Practice measuring temperature drop on operating systems. Document conditions when testing is not advisable.

For complete training with visual materials, practice exams, and certification support, visit nhiexamprep.com

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