NFI Gas Specialist
Considerable knowledge and expertise are called for in designing, installing, and servicing gas hearth systems, not only because of advances in technology, but also because of the nature of fuel gases. We begin with the foundation for all work with gas hearth systems: gas characteristics and combustion basics. We look next at methods and requirements for fuel delivery and then at the fundamentals of gas piping systems.
Sellers, installers, and service technicians of gas hearth appliances assume certain moral and legal responsibilities. The moral responsibility is clear. Improper installation or service potentially can lead to fires and other hazards resulting in loss of life and property.
Technicians and planners should also understand that legal action can arise from improperly installed and serviced appliances. If an accident occurs, all involved parties may be named in a lawsuit; this includes the manufacturer, the distributor, the retailer, the installer or service technician, the test laboratory, the building contractor, and sub-contractor. All interests are best protected if technicians are uncompromisingly attentive to appropriate codes, understand and follow the manufacturer’s installation and service instructions, and use the proper parts and materials.
The current certification exam is based on the 7th Edition Gas Reference manual. Topics covered in the manual and on the exam include:
- Codes and standards
- Valves
- Ignition systems
- Thermostats and remote control
- Burners
- Fuel delivery
- Draft and ventilation principles
- Venting installation guidelines
- Heat protection
- Installation regulations
- Troubleshooting and appendices on basic electricity, house pressure tests and tools and instruments.