Property & Building Inspection · Task 6 of 19

Cooling study notes

Operate with normal controls when conditions allow; report type, energy source and visible defects.

Key points

• Split system: outdoor condenser/compressor plus indoor evaporator coil.
• Avoid running AC below about 60°F outdoor temperature; report that as a limitation.
• Temperature split across the coil is typically 14-22°F, but report it as an observation, not a diagnosis.
• Condensate: primary drain, trap, and a secondary pan/line or float switch for attics.
• Condenser should be level and clear, with a disconnect in sight and breaker no larger than the data-plate maximum.
• Refrigerant charge testing with gauges is beyond the inspector's scope.

Exam tip

water in a secondary pan means the primary drain is failing.

Practise this task

Try free cooling practice questions with answers and explanations, or look up terms in the glossary.

These notes are an original study aid and may contain errors. Verify against current IRC, NEC and NFPA editions and your state's standards of practice.