Wood heat: Wood, as a primary source
of heat is rarely seen in today's buildings. Wood burning almost always
takes place in fireplaces and stoves. Be aware that appliances designed
to burn wood as a fuel require more maintenance than appliance using all
other fuel types. Note: all fossil fuel burning heaters have a device
known as a "heat exchanger." One of the most common methods of
inspecting a heat exchanger is with a mirror and flashlight. Often very
little of the heat exchanger is visible to the inspector without total
disassembly of the unit. The inspector is not allowed to disassemble
anything under the inspection guidelines with respect to inspections for
individuals that do not own the property. Components not visible to the
inspector cannot be effectively reviewed for defects. Any tests
performed by the inspector to determine whether the heat exchanger is
holed or cracked may be inconclusive. It is therefore recommended you
request that the fuel supplier or a heating contractor review the
heating system before taking possession of the property. If this
concerns you do not hesitate to contact the inspector for additional
information on this subject.