International Compliance Association (ICA) Home Inspector Practice Exam

Which of the following components is expected to have the shortest service life span?

1. Gas furnace

2. Steel boiler

3. Copper piping

4. Wooden shingles

The correct answer is: Steel boiler

The component expected to have the shortest service life span among the options listed is the steel boiler. Boilers made of steel typically have a service life of around 15 to 30 years, depending on usage, maintenance, and environmental conditions. In contrast, gas furnaces, while they generally last 15 to 20 years, can sometimes have a longer lifespan. Copper piping is known for its durability and corrosion resistance, often lasting over 50 years when properly installed and maintained. Wooden shingles, when well-maintained, can last around 20 to 50 years depending on the quality of wood and the environment in which they're used. The differences in expected service life stem from the materials used and their susceptibility to factors such as corrosion, weathering, and operational wear and tear. Steel boilers, with their exposure to moisture and high temperatures, are particularly vulnerable to rust and degradation, which contributes to their relatively shorter lifespan compared to the other materials listed.