Inspecting Transformers
Transformers are used to change AC voltage levels. These can be termed as step-up or step-down, depending upon the need to increase or decrease in the voltage level. This is…
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Catch Basin and Manhole Inspections
Section 6.5.2 of the ComSOP titled Exteriors states that the inspector should inspect the stormwater drainage system, general topography, and parking area. To complete this part of the inspection, the…
Variable Air Systems (VAV) and How to Inspect Them
There are two types of air-handling systems: constant volume (CV), and variable air volume (VAV). In a CV system, a constant amount of air flows through the system whenever it…
Commercial Building Exteriors: Split-Face Block Concrete
Concrete masonry blocks with an architectural or rough stone surface are called split-face blocks. The face of these blocks has an irregular, rough texture, as if the surface of the…
Inspecting Exterior Lighting at Commercial Buildings
Exterior lighting has various purposes. It can be an accent feature in landscaping and pathways, a safety feature around exit doors, and a security feature at the building’s exterior and…
Commercial Building Exteriors: Concrete Tilt-Up Panels
Concrete tilt-up panels have become a common method of construction across North America. Tilt-up concrete buildings are commonly used as warehouses, strip malls, and light industrial facilities. The engineered concrete…
Plumbing Devices for Waste Control at Commercial Properties
Commercial properties can have unique storm and wastewater drainage design features and plumbing devices. Most of these features and devices are installed in buildings to protect the watershed or municipal…
Assessing the Main Water Service at Commercial Buildings
Commercial property inspections entail an assessment of the water service. This portion of the inspection should begin with locating the main water service/supply leading into the building. The main water…
Inspecting Mini-Split (Ductless) Heat Pumps
Outside ductless heat pump compressor Mini-split heat pumps, also referred to as ductless heat pumps, are an alternative to radiators and baseboard heating, as well as a replacement for window…
Inspecting Evaporative Coolers/Swamp Coolers
An evaporative cooling system is different from an air conditioning system in that an air conditioning system relies on refrigerant gases and a chemical process to cool the air, whereas…
Inspecting Hanging Gas Furnaces in Commercial Buildings
A hanging gas furnace is a cost-effective alternative to a central heating system in warehouses, garages, loading docks, and manufacturing environments that typically have high ceilings and open floor plans,…
Evaporative Cooling at Commercial Buildings
Evaporative cooling is a technology that utilizes evaporation and blowing air to cool buildings. It may be the sole cooling source, or it may be combined with an air conditioning…