Sec. 197-5.11. Air conditioning systems

(a) Home inspectors shall:

(1) observe, describe and report on the type of air conditioning equipment and air conditioning distribution system;

(2) operate the system using the thermostat;

(3) open a representative number of readily accessible and operable access panels provided by the manufacturer for routine homeowner maintenance;

(4) observe and report on the condition of normally operated controls and components of the system.

(b) Home inspectors are not required to:

(1) activate or operate air conditioning systems that have been shut down;

(2) observe and report on gas-fired refrigeration systems, evaporative coolers, or wall or window-mounted air conditioning units;

(3) check the pressure of the system coolant or determine the presence of leakage;

(4) evaluate the capacity, efficiency or adequacy of the system;

(5) operate equipment or systems if exterior temperature is below 65°F or when other circumstances are not conducive to safe operation or may damage equipment;

(6) remove covers or panels that are not readily accessible or that are not part of routine homeowner maintenance;

(7) dismantle any equipment, controls or gauges;

(8) check the electrical current drawn by the unit;

(9) observe and report on electronic air filters.