Inspections Flashcards
How do you evaluate floor protection?
Floor protection can be specified in thermal conductivity (k value) or thermal resistance (r value)
As K value decreases, there is less heat transfer
As R value increases, there is less heat transfer.
R values can be added up with several materials, K values cannot.
K value can be converted to R value if needed to determine multiple materials.
For unlisted appliances, 18” clearance for floor protection.
How do you inspect the condition of a hearth appliance?
Check:
welds and seems
firebrick
secondary air tubes
glass (tempered shatters at 600 degrees F, ceramic glass doesn’t)
gaskets (fiberglass or ceramic)
porcelain and paint (check for overheating)
How do you inspect and open fireplace firebox?
Check-
firebrick- signs of heavy use?
proper bricks/construction?
bricks worn, cracked or missing?
joints proper width?
joints intact and solid?
signs of water entry?
gap at lintel/where firebox meets facade?
metal components showing rust or corrosion?
damper, log grate, ash dump door functioning?
How to you inspect freestanding stoves and fireplace inserts?
Check-
clearances
connector pipes short and straight as possible?
horizontal run less than 75 percent of vertical rise (IRC) or 50 percent of rise (NFPA)?
male end towards wood appliances
males end towards chimney for gas and oil
What are “readily accessible” areas?
areas that can be reached for inspection or maintenance without use of tools or ladders. Excluding simple tools such as flashlight, mirror, tape measure, etc.
What are “non-accessible” areas?
concealed areas that cannot be reached without damage or destruction to the chimney or building.
What is a level III inspection?
most detailed inspection or CONCEALED areas.
ex. masonry foundation, clearances behind factory built fireplaces
What is a level II inspection?
More detailed than a level I inspection. Used when conditions of system change (fire, flood), when level I reveals needs for a level II, sale of property, relining, replacement of appliance.
Technician inspects ACCESSIBLE areas such as attics, rooftops and ash dumps, using ladders, cameras, etc.
More specific calculations are made on flue sizing, for example.
What are “accessible” areas?
areas that can be reached without destructive action to the building. For example using ladders, pliers, and screwdrivers.
What is a Level I Inspection?
most basic level for continued service. Inspects readily accessible areas. Doesn’t require removal of appliance except when accessing flue for the inspection or cleaning. Checking for damage, blockages, malfunction, clearances.
When to inspect?
Annually
After operating malfunction
After an event such as flood or fire
Prior to purchasing a home
Whenever changes are made
Prior to relining or repairing a system
