Final answer:
The home inspector should systematically investigate the cause of a heating system's failure to turn on, check the thermostat, power supply, and circuit breaker, as well as inspect for visible damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the heating system did not turn on when tested, the home inspector should investigate the cause of the malfunction. To diagnose the issue, the inspector might check whether the thermostat is set correctly and has power, ensure that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped, and look for any visible signs of damage to the heating system components.
This process is similar to testing other home systems, where a methodical approach is essential to pinpoint the exact issue. For instance, if the air conditioning is on but does not cool, it indicates a problem with the AC unit, not the thermostat setting. Likewise, checking if lights are functional can test the electrical system's integrity. In troubleshooting the heating system, professional expertise is crucial for safety and effectiveness.