By Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
Now that I'm selling my home, the buyer's inspector has just cited my furnace because it has no work platform. This heater has been in place for nearly 20 years and has passed inspections by the gas company on previous occasions. Is this the result of some new code requirement, or is the home inspector just being picky? -- Raymond
Dear Raymond,
The home inspector is merely responding to a safety requirement that has been in effect for decades. Although previous inspections failed to disclose the platform violation, it was inevitable that someone would eventually notice it. But don't despair: Needed repairs are simple and relatively inexpensive.
According to code, a work platform, at least 30 inches deep and wide, is required along the control side of any furnace installed in an attic. The intent of the code is to provide optimum working conditions for anyone servicing your heater -- conditions which would not compromise the quality of workmanship.
Without a platform, a heating contractor would be forced to balance his knees on the edges of ceiling joists while attempting to perform critical repairs and adjustments on a gas-burning fixture. Prolonged discomfort in this precarious posture could impair a workman's concentration and precision. Resultant mechanical errors might have serious repercussions, including the possibility of fire, explosion, or the venting of carbon monoxide into occupied areas of the home.
The likely cost of adding a work platform to your attic is moderate; possibly as little as $50. My advice is to find a handyman who can nail a piece of plywood in front of your furnace. Just make sure he understands the requirements of the code prior to commencing work.
In addition to a work platform, it is also required that the furnace area be well lighted. So check to see that a permanent light fixture is installed.
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