Is the inspector required to determine the BTU, size, and capacity of the furnace?

The inspector is not required to determine the BTU, size, and capacity of the furnace during a typical home inspection. The role of the home inspector focuses on assessing the general condition and safety of systems and components within the property rather than conducting detailed evaluations or measurements of specific appliances.

Home inspections are intended to provide a visual and non-invasive evaluation. Therefore, while an inspector may observe the furnace and note its presence and general condition, gathering precise specifications such as BTU ratings or exact sizing generally falls outside the scope of their duties. This is typically more relevant for HVAC professionals or when considering system installation or replacement rather than evaluation during a home inspection.

Choosing not to delve into such specifics allows inspectors to remain focused on identifying evident issues that might affect the home’s safety or functionality, rather than providing technical specifications that might require specialized knowledge or additional tools.