Orphaned Furnace w/ Open Abandoned Flue

[Bruce Breedlove]

Ran across this today on a commercial inspection. The previous natural gas water heater has been replaced with an electric water heater. The flue for the water heater was left open leaving the natural gas furnace orphaned. How would you report this?

[Steven Turetsky]

Just like you stated it. I would add what the ramifications are, and also say that the Tee should be removed.

[Jim Brewer]

I would report that the connector pipe should be repaired so there is no open inlet in the connector. I would also add that the remaining chimney or vent should be inspected as well with verification that the sizing is correct.

[Bruce Breedlove]

Thanks, guys. That's what I did.

[Ted Menelly]

Thanks, guys. That's what I did.


I won't get into all of it but yes report as you did and how about all the copper and what looks like regular unsupported PVC pipe everywhere and is this an insulated area etc etc etc.

[Tom Camp]

It really amazes me some of the un-professional and shotty repairs I run across in this business.

[Bruce Breedlove]

The location is inside a heated shop so the pipe is not subject to freezing. And, yes, I did note the plumbing issues.