Heating Defect Pictures
Heating system defects are commonly found during home inspections and can affect safety, comfort and energy efficiency. Problems may include damaged or improperly installed furnaces, defective venting, inadequate clearances and aging heating equipment. The following pictures show heating defects found during home inspections in Barrie and surrounding areas.
Furnace Defects
Rust and corrosion are visible inside this furnace, indicating that water has entered the cabinet. A leaking or improperly draining condensate line is one possible cause. The source of the moisture should be identified and corrected, and affected furnace components should be inspected for damage.
This furnace has a cracked heat exchanger, which can allow combustion gases to enter the circulating household air. A cracked heat exchanger requires immediate evaluation by a qualified HVAC technician. Because of the cost and complexity of heat exchanger replacement, particularly on an older furnace, replacement of the furnace is often recommended.
In-Floor Heating Systems
Hydronic in-floor heating uses piping installed beneath or within the floor to circulate heated water throughout the system. The piping is typically connected to a boiler or tankless water heater, with individual loops distributing heat to different areas of the home. Proper piping layout and circulation are important for even and efficient floor heating.
Kitec piping was sometimes used in hydronic in-floor heating systems. It is known for premature deterioration and failure, particularly when exposed to the higher temperatures associated with heating systems. Corrosion of the fittings and deterioration of the piping can eventually result in restricted flow or leakage. Replacement of Kitec components should be considered when this material is identified.
Electrical Floor Heating & Fireplace Vent
This thermal image shows the heating cable pattern beneath a bathroom floor. Thermal imaging allows the operation of electric in-floor heating to be quickly checked without disturbing the finished flooring and can help identify areas where heating cables may be damaged or not operating properly.
The B-vent serving this gas fireplace has a poor connection at the ceiling. Vent connections must be properly secured and installed to maintain a continuous venting system for combustion gases. Loose or improperly connected venting can allow combustion products, including carbon monoxide, to enter the home and should be repaired by a qualified technician.
Additional Heating Defects
This heating duct has become disconnected in the basement, allowing heated air to escape before reaching the intended living area. Disconnected ductwork can reduce heating efficiency, create uneven temperatures throughout the home and unnecessarily increase heating costs. The duct should be properly reconnected and secured.
The cover for the furnace filter compartment is missing, allowing air to be drawn into the return-air system without passing through the filter. This can reduce filtration efficiency and allow dust and debris to accumulate inside the furnace and ductwork. A properly fitting cover should be installed.
Learn More About Home Inspections
Explore more examples of defects found during home inspections, including problems with Electrical Defects, Structural Defects, Insulation Defects and Thermal Imaging. These pages provide more examples and information from actual home inspections in Barrie and surrounding areas.
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The Barrie Home Inspector is available 7 Days a Week for your convenience.
Inspection Areas
Barrie • Alliston • Angus • Innisfil • Wasaga Beach • Orillia • Midland • Penetanguishene
