Home Inspection Diploma Program Outline
Module 3 – Mechanical Systems
Security and Fire Alarm Systems
Buying a home is probably the biggest investment many people ever make. It’s also why millions of people spend billions of dollars each year to safeguard their homes from theft and fire. As a home inspector, you may be called on to evaluate security and fire alarm systems. This lesson provides an overview of today’s most popular technologies, along with an introduction to their various uses and operating features.
Plumbing Systems
A plumbing problem – even one that starts with a simple drip under the kitchen sink – can lead to serious and costly repairs for the homeowner. Here you learn how to check operation and identify leaks, corrosion, and other plumbing deficiencies. You find out what clues to look for when examining things like the water supply, pipe and fittings, hot water heaters, waste disposals, water treatment installations, water pressure and temperature, plus fixtures, faucets, and drains.
Electrical Systems
Electrical installations are highly regulated by local authority and frequently must meet stringent requirements. Here you learn how to test and evaluate electrical service to ensure that it’s adequate for the number and type of appliances present in the house. You study the components of an electrical system, learn about national electrical code, and examine in detail the workings of electric circuits – from conductor size and wiring methods to raceways and overcurrent protection.
Heating Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems
A soundly built house will last indefinitely, but many of its parts require regular replacement. Heating and air conditioning equipment deserves an especially thorough inspection since it’s among the costliest mechanical equipment in most homes – and can be equally expensive to maintain if not kept in good working order. Here you learn about different types of heating and air conditioning units as you study components for inspection plus procedures for evaluating the condition of a system, based on its normal life, use, and requirements for air flow and temperature.
Landscaping
While an attractive yard can certainly enhance the value of a property, landscaping isn’t just about good looks. As a home inspector, it’s important for you to understand how landscaping can affect the overall condition of a home. You study grading, drainage requirements, elevations, maintenance problems associated with leaf-shedding, proneness to insect infestation, problems caused by root encroachment, and more.
Performing the Home Inspection: Tools and Techniques
In this lab exercise your challenge is to choose a house – whether it's your own, a friend’s, or a neighbor’s – and perform an actual step-by-step inspection of its structural conditions, electrical and HVAC systems, plumbing, major appliances, general interior and exterior, insulation, and more ... just as you would for a real, paying customer. Instructions show you how to work with all these tools while your lab manual guides you through the inspection and note-taking process. As you make your may from basement to attic, covering every important inspection point in between, you get the real-world experience you need to begin developing and perfecting your own professional inspection techniques.
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