The Importance of Solar System Inspection When Buying a Home

 

In a time where sustainability and renewable energy are on the minds of many, the installation of solar panel systems has become increasingly common. When buying a property with an existing solar panel system, you could assume that all is well and the system is working fine. However, like all things in a home, issues, damage, age, weather, and other factors could have affected the performance and operation of the system. An inspection that includes the solar electric system is encouraged whenever a home with solar panels is purchased.

The significance of a solar system inspection cannot be overstated. This inspection is a critical evaluation of the system's condition, performance, and potential future expenses. Here's what's included.

Solar Panels:

Solar panels are the heart of any solar energy system. These photovoltaic cells harness sunlight and convert it into electricity. During an inspection, we assess the physical condition of the panels, checking for any signs of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or loose connections. We also confirm the panels are properly secured to the roof or ground mounting system.

Solar System Inverters:

Inverters play a pivotal role in converting the direct current (DC) produced by solar panels into alternating current (AC) that can be used to power household appliances. Malfunctioning inverters can significantly hamper the performance of a solar system. We examine inverters for signs of wear and tear, and confirm they are working. Upgrading or replacing inverters can be costly, so identifying any issues before purchase is important.

Net Meters:

Net meters are essential components for homes with grid-tied solar systems. They measure the amount of electricity generated by the solar panels and any surplus energy that is fed back into the grid. During an inspection, we confirm a net meter has been installed. Faulty net meters could result in inaccurate billing and money lost.

AC Connections:

The AC connections of a solar system ensure seamless integration with the existing electrical infrastructure of the property. We examine these connections to confirm they are properly installed and functioning correctly. Any loose connections or wiring issues could pose safety hazards and may need immediate attention.

We not only inspect solar systems, we use them. With over 48 solar electric or solar thermal panels in use at our own property we understand the cost and operation involved in these systems. Helping our buyers make informed decisions is what we do as inspectors. Schedule your next inspection at www.careyhomeinspection.com

Fireplace and wood stove safety

Fireplaces and wood stoves offer warmth and ambiance to homes, especially during cold seasons. However, they also pose potential risks if not used properly. To ensure the safety of your household and property, it's crucial to adhere to safety recommendations when operating these heating sources. Don from Carey Home Inspection, www.careyhomeinspection.com recommends adding an interior chimney inspection added to all home inspections. Most chimney liners today have unreported defects that can become safety issues if the fireplace is used. 

Installation: Proper installation is paramount for safety. Hire a professional technician certified by relevant authorities to install your fireplace or wood stove. Ensure that the installation complies with local building codes and manufacturer guidelines.

Regular Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance to keep your fireplace or wood stove in optimal condition. Schedule annual inspections by a qualified technician to check for any issues such as creosote buildup, chimney obstructions, or damaged components.

Chimney Cleaning: Creosote, a byproduct of burning wood, can accumulate inside chimneys, increasing the risk of chimney fires. Regular chimney cleaning is essential to remove creosote buildup. Aim for cleaning at least once a year, or more frequently if you use your fireplace or wood stove extensively.

Quality Fuel: Use only seasoned hardwoods for burning in your fireplace or wood stove. Seasoned wood burns cleaner and produces less creosote compared to green or unseasoned wood. Avoid burning treated wood, pallets, or other materials, as they can release harmful chemicals and residues.

Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the room where your fireplace or wood stove is located. Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and on every level of your home to monitor for any dangerous gas buildup.

Clearances: Maintain proper clearances between your fireplace or wood stove and combustible materials such as furniture, curtains, or decorations. Consult the manufacturer's guidelines or local building codes to determine the required clearance distances.

Use of Screens and Gates: Employ fireplace screens or gates to prevent sparks and embers from escaping the fireplace and causing accidental fires. These safety barriers also serve as a protective measure, especially if you have children or pets in the household.

Supervision: Never leave a fire unattended. Ensure someone responsible is present whenever the fireplace or wood stove is in use. Supervision is crucial to prevent accidents and to promptly address any issues that may arise.

Extinguishing Fires: Use a fireplace tool set to safely extinguish the fire before leaving the room or going to bed. Allow the ashes to cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. Never dispose of hot ashes in a plastic trash can or near combustible materials.

Education and Training: Educate all household members on fireplace and wood stove safety practices. Teach them how to properly operate these heating sources and what to do in case of emergencies, such as a chimney fire or carbon monoxide leak.

By following these safety recommendations, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of your fireplace or wood stove while minimizing the risks associated with their use. Remember, safety should always be a top priority when heating your home with these traditional sources of warmth.

The Crucial Role of Plumbing Vents: How They Work and Why They Are Essential

 

When it comes to the inner workings of your home, there's a network of systems that ensure everything runs smoothly. Among these, plumbing is a fundamental component that demands careful attention. One often-overlooked but critical aspect of plumbing systems is the plumbing vent. In this blog post, we'll delve into why plumbing vents are so important and how they work to maintain the health and functionality of your home's plumbing.

The Basics of Plumbing Vents

Plumbing vents, also known as vent pipes or vent stacks, are an integral part of any plumbing system. Their primary purpose is to allow air into the plumbing system, which, in turn, prevents the formation of a vacuum that can impede water flow and trap sewer gasses within the pipes. Plumbing vents are typically made of plastic, cast iron, or galvanized steel, and they extend vertically from the plumbing system's drainage pipes to the exterior of the building, usually through the roof.

Why Plumbing Vents Are Essential

Preventing
Siphonage and Trapped Gasses

One of the primary functions of plumbing vents is to prevent siphonage. When water flows down a drain, it creates negative pressure within the pipes. Without a vent to equalize this pressure, it can siphon water from traps, allowing sewer gases and odors to enter your home. Plumbing vents ensure that traps, which are designed to hold a small amount of water to block gases, remain effective in their role.

Maintaining Proper Drainage

Plumbing vents also help maintain the proper drainage of wastewater. Without adequate venting, water can flow slowly or become trapped in the pipes, leading to sluggish drains, gurgling noises, and even backups. Plumbing vents allow air to enter the system, preventing these issues and ensuring wastewater flows smoothly to the sewer or septic tank.

Protecting Fixtures and Pipes

By equalizing pressure and preventing siphonage, plumbing vents protect not only your fixtures but also the pipes themselves. A lack of venting can lead to premature corrosion and damage to your plumbing system, potentially resulting in costly repairs or replacements.

How Plumbing Vents Work

Understanding how plumbing vents work is essential for homeowners and home inspectors alike. Here's a brief overview of their functioning:

Air Intake: Plumbing vents draw in air from the atmosphere through a vent cap or pipe on your roof. This fresh air enters the plumbing system, allowing water to flow freely without creating a vacuum.

Equalizing Pressure: As wastewater flows down the drain, the vent ensures that it doesn't create negative pressure within the pipes. Instead, the air from the vent keeps the pressure balanced, preventing the risk of siphonage.

Ventilation: In addition to preventing siphonage, plumbing vents provide ventilation to the sewer or septic system, aiding in the release of sewer gasses and unpleasant odors safely into the atmosphere.

Size and Placement: Proper sizing and placement of plumbing vents are critical for their effectiveness. Home inspectors should ensure that vents are correctly positioned, have the appropriate diameter, and are clear from obstructions such as debris or bird nests.

Conclusion

Plumbing vents may not be the most visible or glamorous part of your home's plumbing system, but they play a crucial role in ensuring its functionality, efficiency, and safety. Without them, you'd be at risk of foul odors, slow drains, and potential damage to your plumbing infrastructure. As a homeowner, understanding the importance of plumbing vents and their proper maintenance is essential for a trouble-free plumbing system. When you're buying a new home or having a home inspection, don't forget to include a thorough check of the plumbing vents to ensure your investment is secure and your peace of mind intact.

How to keep your pets safe during a home inspection

 

What to do with pets during a home inspection is often a challenge when selling a home. Ensuring the safety and managing the emotional needs of dogs or cats when others are in their home takes some planning and sometimes help. Our inspection team has several dogs and cats, and we love meeting new pets, but not all inspectors do. Here are a few suggestions to make this process as easy as possible.

1. When possible, always take your furry family members with you and leave the house. Pets can be a distraction during the inspection. Pets are often territorial and having strangers in the home can result in uncharacteristic behavior such as aggression or fear. Asking the inspector in advance how long the inspection is likely to take and plan to walk your dog or take them to the park if weather permits is often a good idea.
   
   
2. Crating can be a great alternative. If removing your pet from the home is not possible, consider using a crate. If your pet is accustomed to spending time in a crate this can allow them to remain in the home and be safe during the inspection. Covering the crate with a blanket or blackout cover can also help if that is something they are familiar with.
   
   
3. Confine them to a secure location. If a backyard kennel is available, this can be an excellent option, or a bedroom that can confine your pet safely. Remember, the inspector will need to access the attic and plumbing, so a room that contains the attic access or a bathroom would not be a good choice. Also, the inspector will need access to the backyard, so while a kennel is a good plan, a fenced in backyard is not.
   
   
4. Leave notes for the inspector. If your pets need to stay in the home and cannot be confined, leave notes for those attending the inspection. This is quite common with cats. Leave a note on the main entry door that is visible before the door is opened warning of pets inside that cannot be let out so everyone knows before the door is opened to be on the lookout for pets. Leave additional notes on attic or basement doors informing if your pets are permitted in these areas or not. Also, leave a note with your contact information in the event there is an issue requiring someone to call you. If your pets are permitted to leave the house, include that in the note so everyone knows not to trap them inside.
   
   
5. Consider a pet sitter. If pets must remain in the home, ask someone to take responsibility for them. You may be tempted to ask your real estate agent for this, but remember they are strangers to your pet too. A better choice is a family member or friend who is known to your pet. If needed, let your agent know you plan to attend the inspection only to care for your pet at that time. During the inspection people will be in and out of the house numerous times. While care is always taken to insure the safety of your pets, remember the inspectors' primary responsibility is the inspection of the home.

No one wants to return home after an inspection and find a traumatized or lost pet. Your pet's safety and health is extremely important to us. With a little planning and information a complete inspection can be performed even if pets remain home during the process.