What should home inspectors describe regarding the heating system?

Home inspectors should describe the type of fuel and heating distribution system because this information is crucial for understanding how the heating system operates. It provides insight into the system’s reliability, efficiency, and potential safety issues. Identifying whether the system uses gas, electricity, oil, or another fuel type can help in assessing both current operational costs and future maintenance needs. Additionally, detailing the heating distribution system, such as forced air, hydronic, or radiant heat, informs the homeowner about how heat is delivered throughout the home, which can impact comfort and energy efficiency.

Describing the fuel type and the system's distribution method lays a foundation for evaluating the heating system's adequacy and safety, making it a primary focus during a home inspection. Other aspects, such as gas leaks or insulation condition, are important but fall under safety checks or secondary assessments rather than a fundamental description of the heating system itself.