Electrical and HVAC Systems
This domain combines electrical service and distribution with heating, cooling, and ventilation equipment. The exam tests safe observation, normal-control operation, and recognition of defects that require a licensed specialist.
Electrical
Inspect the service drop or lateral, meter, main disconnect, panelboard, overcurrent devices, grounding and bonding, GFCI/AFCI protection, and visible wiring. Report double-tapped breakers, missing knockouts, exposed conductors, improper bonding, and damaged panel enclosures. Do not remove a deadfront if it is not readily accessible.
HVAC
Operate heating and cooling with normal controls. Describe the energy source, distribution, venting, combustion air, condensate management, and filters. Inspectors are not required to determine heat-exchanger integrity, refrigerant charge, or equipment sizing, and should not operate cooling equipment below 65°F outdoor temperature.
Worked example
A bathroom GFCI trips when its test button is pressed. The inspector reports the device as functional; if a downstream receptacle remains energized, that indicates a wiring defect. Reasoning: the test button checks the device, not the entire circuit layout.
Traps
Touching live conductors; removing a panel cover that is not readily accessible; operating an air conditioner in cold weather; calling a warm register a furnace failure without checking the source and controls.