Homewerx Home Inspection in Mesa, AZ

Category: Heating

  • Even AZ homeowners need to service their heat pumps!

    Most of us living in Arizona don't run our heat very often.  However, it's still important to do regular maintenance on your heat pump… especially since your heat pump also cools your home in the summer months!  Although heat pumps and air conditioners function differently, they both produce condensation as they cool.  This condensation collects in a drain pan, and is then drained out through the condensate lines.  These condensate lines can become clogged, leading to a significant risk of water leakage, water damage and mold.  Having your home's heat pump or air conditioner serviced regularly can help to avoid much more expensive repairs in the future.

    The picture below shows a heat pump's primary drain pan, which is full of rust and other crud indicating improper drainage.  And yes, "crud" is a technical term!

    This picture shows a heat pump's primary drain pan, which is full of rust and other crud indicating improper drainage.

  • Don’t Just Have a Home Inspection, Get a HomeXray!!

    Don't just have a Home Inspection, get a HomeXray!! A HomeXray is an Infrared (IR) Thermal Imaging Inspection

    What is a HomeXraySM?
    A HomeXraySM is a scan of your home using a special infrared thermal imaging camera.  This infrared (IR) camera detects very small temperature variations in your home’s components, even in hidden areas such as behind the walls, above the ceiling and beneath the floors.  These very minor temperature differences often reveal ‘invisible’ problems which cannot be seen with the naked eye, and would not be found with just a traditional home inspection.  Some people refer to this technology as "seeing through walls" or "X-ray Vision".  While neither of these analogies are technically correct, in many cases a HomeXraySM can help the Inspector "see" problems that would otherwise not be visible.Infrared (IR) thermal imaging camera used to take HomeXrays

    Why do I need a HomeXraySM?
    A HomeXraySM takes your home inspection to the next level!  While a good home inspector can detect a wide variety of problems without "seeing inside the walls", a standard home inspection has limitations because it’s a visual inspection.  A HomeXraySM is an inexpensive, non-invasive and non-destructive method of finding hidden problems that would otherwise go undetected.  Often times, a HomeXraySM can find a problem in its early stages before there are visible symptoms, making it easier and less expensive to repair.  Much like a medical x-ray can help a doctor to diagnose a problem inside your body without doing exploratory surgery, a HomeXraySM is a quick and painless way to find certain types of problems that can be hidden within your home’s walls, floors and ceilings.  But even a HomeXraySM has limitations, and it takes much more than a special IR camera to "see through walls".  Just like it takes a trained Radiologist to properly interpret your medical x-ray, it takes a trained Thermographer to properly interpret your HomeXraySM.  Rest assured that when you order a HomeXraySM from Homewerx, your Inspector is also a trained, experienced and Certified Thermographer.

    The U.S. Dept. of Energy recommends having an infrared scan done before purchasing a home because even new houses can have defects in their thermal envelopes.

    This is a HomeXray of a Ceiling - Taken During a Home Inspection, Using an Infrared (IR) Thermal Imaging Camera
    This HomeXraySM of a ceiling reveals an area with no insulation.         
     

    What types of problems can a HomeXraySM reveal?
    A HomeXraySM can find several different types of hidden problems, including:

    • Plumbing leaks, moisture intrusion and water damage
    • Missing insulation and energy loss
    • Heating, cooling and ventilation problems (HVAC), including ductwork leaks
    • Roof leaks, structural issues and foundation cracks
    • Faulty wiring, breakers and fuses 
    • Pests such as termites, rats and mice

    Is a HomeXraySM part of a Home Inspection?
    A HomeXraySM is not included with your home inspection – it’s an additional service.  You can order a HomeXraySM by itself, or with a home inspection.  You may also choose to have a HomeXraySM of your entire house, or we can do a HomeXraySM of one specific area where you suspect a problem.  It’s up to you!  Of course, you can save money when you order both a home inspection and a HomeXraySM at the same time!

    Do I get a report with my HomeXraySM?
    Yes!  The Inspector also prepares a comprehensive, typewritten report which explains the results of your HomeXraySM and includes several color photos.  The report is EASY-TO-READ and understand and contains maintenance advice plus other helpful homeowner information.  Reports are usually emailed the next day, but can also be delivered by fax or regular mail.

    How much does a HomeXraySM cost?
    The price of a HomeXraySM depends on several factors:  the size of your home, whether you want a HomeXraySM of the entire house or just a certain area, and whether you order your HomeXraySM with a home inspection or by itself.  But for a limited time, when you order a home inspection from Homewerx, you can get a HomeXraySM for an additional fee of:

    ONLY $149.00* (for homes up to 3000 square feet)
    This is an introductory offer only and won’t last long… so HURRY!

       

    Order your HomeXraySM today!
     

    (480) 503-2611
    TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

    Because an ounce of inspection is worth a pound of repair!

    *IMPORTANT NOTE:  $149 HomeXraySM offer is good only on homes that are 3000 square feet or smaller, and requires the purchase of a Home Inspection at regular price.  The HomeXraySM must be performed at the same time as the Home Inspection or additional trip charges may apply.  No other discounts or offers may be used in conjunction with this offer.  This price is offered for a limited time only and may end without notice.

  • Homeowners Need Inspections Too!

    Even when you are not buying or selling a home, you can still benefit from a home inspection in a variety of ways:

    We also inspect rental properties:

    • Landlord and Investor Inspections – performed regularly while tenants are living in your property
    • Renter Inspections – to help renters document existing damage and defects before moving into a rental property

    We even do Commercial Inspections!

    • Offices
    • Retail space
    • Apartment complexes
    • Other commercial properties

    So remember, home inspections are not just for buyers!  The longer you have owned your home or plan to own your home, the more important it is to have regular inspections in order to properly maintain your home and avoid costly repairs.

    Call for an inspection today!

    (480) 503-2611
    TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

    Or Schedule Online!

  • Air Conditioner & Heat Pump Warning Signs

    As we get into the 100+ degree temperatures, the efficiency of your home’s cooling system becomes of the utmost importance.  Your air conditioner or heat pump is usually the most expensive appliance in your home, not only in terms of initial cost, but also when it comes to maintenance cost and energy use.

    To maintain comfort in your home and to keep your cooling unit working at peak efficiency, you should:

    • have your air conditioner or heat pump serviced annually by a qualified professional
    • change your air filters at least once per month (yes – every month!)
    • keep at least 90% of all your home’s air vents open to avoid creating a pressure imbalance
    • clean any debris or obstructions near the outdoor components of your cooling system to improve cooling efficiency

    In many cases, it makes alot of sense financially to replace an older cooling system even if it still works just fine.  This is because newer cooling units are much more energy efficient than older ones.  Therefore, the money you save in electric bills will pay for the cost of the new unit in a fairly short time.  It obviously depends on how long you plan to keep your home.  If your air conditioner or heat pump is more than 10 years old and you plan to keep your home for several years, you should definitely consider a newer, more efficient cooling system.

    One or more of the warning signs below could indicate that your cooling system may soon be due for repair or replacement:

    • Your cooling system makes excessive noise
    • Your air conditioner or heat pump turns on and off frequently
    • You notice some rooms are colder than desired, or hotter than desired
    • Your electricity usage increases
    • You notice excessive dust in your home
    • Your cooling system requires frequent repair
    • Your cooling system is more than 10 years old

    Hope this information helps you and your family stay cool this summer.  Remember, if you have any type of problem in your home, Homewerx Home Inspections can help!  We do homeowner maintenance inspections and special inspections, in addition to many other services.

    Call today for more information
    or to schedule your inspection!

    Valleywide (480) 503-2611
    Toll free: 1-888-THE-WERX

  • Air Conditioner on Brand New Home Doesn’t Work

                Brand new home's air conditioner doesn't work because the thermostat's wires were not stripped and are therefore not making proper contact! This would affect the heating operation also.                  

    Any ideas why this brand new home’s air conditioner does not work? 

    The correct answer will be posted in the ‘Comments‘ next Tuesday, February 28th!

    Be sure to check back…you can make a ‘Comment‘ below if you think you know the answer!

  • Fireplace Safety

    When the weather begins to turn cooler, people start to crank up their fireplaces.  It is very relaxing to cozy up with a good book on a cold winter’s night and watch the fire.  However, before lighting your fireplace, you should check a few things to ensure the safety of your home and family.  It is important to know what type of fireplace you have and how to operate it properly.

    If you have recently purchased a home, it is important to have your fireplace and chimney inspected.  A defective or deteriorating firebox and chimney can be hazardous to the structure of your home, as well as to your family.  It is also wise to install a carbon monoxide detector in your home.  A fireplace that is not operating correctly can produce this toxic gas.  Be aware that the suggestions below are not intended to replace an inspection by a qualified inspector.

    There are two main types of built in-fireplaces:  masonry and metal insert.  Masonry fireplaces are built with bricks and mortar and have a metal or clay flue liner.  They are designed to burn anything from cordwood to gas logs.  Metal insert fireplaces, on the other hand, are just that.  A metal firebox is inserted into the framing of the house and a single or double-walled flue is extended through the siding or roof of the house.  They are primarily designed to burn gas logs only.   It should be noted that fireplaces are very inefficient for heating and are primarily for entertainment.  Even with the best fireplaces, less than 17% of the heat is radiated into the house; the rest is lost up the chimney.

    Things to look for in a masonry fireplace
    First, look at the fireplace as a whole.  If there is not a spark screen or glass door, do not use the fireplace.  Check to see if there are any damaged or cracked bricks in the firebox or hearth.  Look at the mortar joints.  Are they in good condition or are they deteriorating?  Operate the damper and make sure it is open before lighting a fire.  And finally, look at the top of the chimney for a spark screen and make sure the opening at the top is clear.

    Note: If the primary fuel burned in the fireplace is cordwood, have the chimney cleaned after every one and a half cords.  This will prevent a fire in the chimney from creosote build up.
    Safety Note: Never burn 2 x 4’s or other engineered wood products in your fireplace.  These products are chemically treated and may give off toxic fumes.

    Things to look for in a metal insert fireplace
    Metal fireplace inserts are very common in many new homes.  They are generally safe appliances to operate, however, like masonry fireplaces are for entertainment rather than home heating. First, look at the fireplace as a whole.  If there is not a spark screen or glass door or if you see any physical damage, do not use the fireplace.  Look at the top of the chimney for a spark screen and make sure that trees or bushes are clear of the opening.  If an electric igniter is installed, check that it is operational before turning on the gas.  Look at the gas burner for rust, physical damage or soot build up.  If while lighting the burner, an ignition whomp occurs (a slow ignition of the gas that makes a whomp sound) a problem may exist with the air gap setting in the burner assembly.  In some sealed units, after the burner is lit, the glass may fog up, however, the fogging should clear up in a few minutes.

    Note: Follow the manufacturers’ instructions for your particular unit when lighting. 

    If you have any questions or concerns, contact a professional…and ALWAYS watch children around fire!

  • Air Duct Inspection (using video camera)

    An Air Duct Inspection is a visual inspection of the inside of your air ducts.  For this type of inspection, the inspector uses a specially designed video camera which can be extended up to 100 feet inside the air ducts.  The inspector and client can then view the inside of the air ducts on a small TV monitor.  This type of Air Duct Inspection is helpful in identifying conditions that affect both your cooling system’s efficiency and your family’s health.  Some conditions that can be diagnosed by an Air Duct Inspection are:

    • Dirt or mold in the air ducts
    • Dead animals, trash or other obstructions in the air ducts
    • Cracks or other openings/penetrations in the air ducts

    Cracks in the air ducts are of particular concern in homes with a sub slab return system because these types of cracks can increase the potential for high levels of radon gas.

    The cost for this type of Air Duct Inspection is:

    • $300 by itself, or
    • $200 if you get an Air Duct Inspection in conjunction with a home inspection or other service

    For an additional fee, the client may purchase a copy of the Air Duct Inspection on a VHS video tape, or on a DVD.

    …Because an Ounce of Inspection is Worth a Pound of Repair!

    Valleywide Service, 7 Days a Week!

    Call Today
    (480) 503-2611
    TOLL FREE:  1-888-THE-WERX

    Or Schedule Online!

  • What Does a Home Inspection Include?

    We inspect in accordance with the Arizona BTR Standards and ASHI® Standards.  A standard home inspection includes the following:

  • Air Conditioning
  • Built-in Appliances
  • Electrical System
  • Exterior of the Home
  • Heating System
  • Insulation & Ventilation
  • Interior of the Home
  • Plumbing System
  • Pool & Spa
  • Roofing Components
  • Structural Components

    • Termite Reports & Environmental Inspections are not included in a standard home inspection, but can be done for an additional fee.

  • Heating System

    During a standard home inspection, the following parts of permanently installed heating systems are inspected:

    • heating equipment
    • normal operating controls
    • automatic safety controls
    • chimneys, flues and vents
    • solid fuel heating devices
    • heat distribution systems including fans, pumps, ducts and piping, with supports, dampers, insulation, air filters, registers, radiators, fan coil units, convectors
    • the presence of an installed heat source in each room

  • Maintaining Your Heating System

    Now that colder weather is upon us, it is time to make sure your heating system is ready.  There are several types of heating systems available.  In the Valley, however, we mainly see gas furnaces, electric (resistance) furnaces and heat pumps.  Since it is most likely that you have one of these three types in your home, we will give you a few tips to help you maintain safe and reliable heat all winter long. 

    Gas Furnaces
    Many people prefer gas appliances to electric ones.  Gas has been proven to be an economical and reliable source of energy.  However, if these appliances are not properly maintained, gas can be deadly.  Regular maintenance is important to insure the safety of the occupants in homes with gas appliances.  Annual inspections are the best way to identify problems before they pose a safety risk.  Some gas companies will perform an annual check for gas leaks free of charge, while others will refer you to a professional who will charge a fee.  Even with regular servicing, unsafe conditions can develop at any time.  Since natural gas is colorless and odorless, the gas company has added an ingredient that smells like rotten eggs.  If you smell this odor, open the windows to prevent accumulation of gas, leave the property and call the gas company immediately.

    Unfortunately, gas leaks are not the only danger with gas appliances.  Improperly adjusted and damaged burner assemblies will produce carbon monoxide.  Regular inspections should also identify these conditions.  CO is also a colorless and odorless gas which, in large enough quantities, can cause death.  Some of the symptoms of CO poisoning are headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath and drowsiness.  If your home is equipped with gas appliances, a carbon monoxide detector may help prevent a tragedy.  It is also important to change or clean the filters monthly.  This will help with indoor air quality and reduce stress on the system.

    Electric Furnaces
    Electric furnaces are more efficient than gas, however, electricity is more expensive.  This is probably the main drawback to electric heat.  Although electricity may cost more than gas, these systems are often much more efficient and economical to operate because heat is not lost up the flue.  Electric heat can also be safer.  Because no combustion is taking place, the electric furnace does not pose a risk of CO poisoning.  Regular inspections should be performed to identify possible problems.  Changing or cleaning the filters monthly will help with indoor air quality and reduce stress on the system.

    The real danger to electric heat is the space heater.  These appliances are nice because they can direct instant heat on your favorite lounge chair.  But if placed too close to furnishings like draperies, they can cause a fire.  Many units can reach temperatures as high as 400 degrees.  Most newer space heaters are equipped with a device that will turn them off if tipped over.  This feature needs to be tested regularly to insure safe operation.  If it fails, the heater should be replaced.  Many of these space heaters also pose a burn risk.  Be especially careful when using these heaters around children!  When selecting a space heater, you should choose a name brand.  Check with the Consumer Products Safety Commission for bulletins on unsafe and recalled items at www.cpsc.org. 

    Heat Pumps
    A heat pump is a system that transfers heat from one place to another.  In the summer, heat is collect from inside and deposited outside.  In the winter, heat is gathered from outside and transferred indoors.  This type of system works well in mild climates.  However, a back up system for both heating and cooling are often needed for extremely hot or cold spells.  When operating a heat pump, never change from the heating mode to the cooling mode or vice versa without shutting the system off for at least 20 to 30 minutes first.  Changing modes without letting the system equalize can cause damage to the system.  Like gas and electric furnaces, heat pump maintenance involves regular inspections and frequent changing or cleaning of the filters.

    If you have any questions or concerns, contact a professional.

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