This happens more often than people think. I inspected a house where the contractor scratched all of the information off the nameplate. I have no idea why. I am waiting for the utilities to come on to see what happens. Thank you for the information Joseph.

Joseph, don't you love job security:)

Gotta love it!

Frank, that's interesting that the data plate was scratched?

Charles, I guess that's one way to look at it  :-)

David, it never fails.

Joseph,

I always check the data plate and record the manufacturers maximum circuit breaker size for the unit. I then compare that to the breaker in the panel. Just as you pointed out they must not exceed the stated maximum.

BUT, the wires can actually be smaller than the rated maximum for the breaker. Notice in the tag below the minimum circuit ampacity 19.6. The Maximum breaker size is 30 Amps. Believe it or not a #12 wire (20 amp) would be OK wired to a 30 amp breaker on this unit.

Now if I saw what Joe saw I would have done exactly the same thing. I always check the breaker and wire size against the tag and look inside the service switch behind the unit for correct wiring. I am surprised how many inspectors neglect to check these items yet record the compressor cooling size.

Good post Joe. This is an often overlooked and important part of inspecting an A/C system.

James, thanks for posting a picture of a data plate.

Hi Joseph.  Great post, great information.  Thanks for sharing.

Have a great day!

Richard, you're welcome.  Thanks for stopping by.

Joseph:

Good post. It is very interesting what turns up in a good inspection. Good work.

Alan, thanks for the compliment and thanks for stopping by.

There's nothing better than a good home inspector.  We always tell our clients that they need that third opinion.  I would rather hear about during the inspection then get an angry call after we close.