Homeowners guide to HVAC inspections
Key takeaways:
An HVAC system (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) is the backbone of a modern-day home. It plays a significant role in indoor air quality maintenance and keeping your family comfortable. However, according to Duraplainc, only 30% of Americans get their HVAC systems inspected regularly. This can be problematic and lead to several issues that may cause stress and unplanned expenses.
Learn why HVAC inspections are critical to home maintenance.
What is an HVAC inspection?
An HVAC home inspection comprehensively evaluates all the working components of a home's heating and cooling systems. It is usually a part of a home inspection report homeowners get when buying or renting a new place.
A licensed HVAC technician examines the HVAC system to determine the equipment's life span and condition, the hygiene factors of each component, the functioning of each component and other safety mechanisms.
Why does a homeowner need an HVAC inspection?
A professional inspection can give you the peace of mind that your HVAC system has been thoroughly analyzed for performance, reliability and durability and identify any issues that need to be fixed
What are some potential benefits of HVAC service or inspection?
- Save money: Properly working HVAC equipment can save you money on energy bills and maintain energy efficiency. Regularly inspecting your cooling and heating systems can ensure that you get the right tune-ups at the right time, helping your installed systems work as they should.
- Prevent emergency repairs: RegularHVAC inspections and maintenance are your top defenses against pricey emergency repairs. Avoiding diagnosis can snowball into a more complex situation and cost you more than just repairs. Routine checkups can avoid equipment failure when you need it most.
- Safety concerns: Your HVAC system has several components that can lead to safety concerns. Electrical problems due to the wiring, a clogged air flow or damaged parts can all damage your system and your home. By having your systems serviced and inspected, you can diagnose these issues and work on resolving them.
Components of an HVAC inspection
Furnace inspection
A comprehensive furnace inspection checklist involves several key steps, each focusing on different system parts. This article will cover the inspection process, including the thermostat, furnace cabinet and electrical components.
Thermostat: The thermostat is the control center for your furnace, regulating the temperature to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. During an inspection, the thermostat's functionality is thoroughly checked. This involves ensuring that it responds accurately to temperature changes and correctly signals the furnace to turn on or off. Calibrate the thermostat to ensure it provides precise temperature control, enhancing the overall efficiency of the HVAC system.
Furnace cabinet: The furnace cabinet houses various components of the heating system and should be visually inspected for damage or wear. Look for cracks, rust or other indicators of potential issues.
Also, accumulated dirt can obstruct airflow, reduce efficiency and even pose a fire hazard. Regular cleaning helps maintain optimal performance and extends the life of the furnace.
Furnace electrical components: Inspecting the furnace's electrical components is crucial for safety and functionality. Check all wiring and connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage. Loose or frayed wires can lead to electrical malfunctions or even fires. You should also look for signs of damage on the circuit boards. These boards control many of the furnace's functions and any issues can lead to system failures.
Furnace blower wheel: The blower wheel circulates air through the furnace and into the home. Ensure that the blower wheel operates correctly, as a malfunctioning blower can significantly impact system efficiency and indoor air quality. If necessary, clean the blower wheel to remove dust and debris that can accumulate over time.
Furnace ignition: Check for wear and damage, as faulty igniters can prevent the furnace from starting or cause it to operate inefficiently. Regular inspection and maintenance of the ignition system help avoid unexpected furnace failures, particularly during colder months when reliable heating is critical.
Furnace exhaust venting and heat exchanger: Check for blockages in the exhaust venting that can impede the flow of combustion gases. Blockages can lead to dangerous backdrafts and carbon monoxide buildup inside the home. The heat exchanger transfer thermal energy and is essential for your furnace to work properly.
The heat exchanger should specifically be inspected for cracks or leaks. A damaged heat exchanger can allow carbon monoxide to enter the living space, posing a severe health risk. Ensuring the integrity of these components is essential for both safety and efficient furnace operation.
Gas & CO test: Ensuring there are no leaks in gas lines is a critical safety measure. Testing for carbon monoxide (CO) is equally important. Even small amounts of CO can be harmful, so technicians use sensitive detectors to ensure that the gas furnace is not emitting this dangerous gas. You can test CO levels yourself by using a battery-operated CO detector.
Air conditioner system inspection
Now that we've reviewed the steps to inspect your furnace, let’s review the cooler (literally) part of your HVAC system. Regular AC system checkups can help ensure efficiency and reliability.
AC evaporator coil: Dirt and debris can accumulate on the coil over time, reducing its efficiency. Check the evaporator coil for dirt and damage, ensuring it is clean and in good condition.
AC drain pan: The AC drain pan collects condensation that forms during the cooling process. Check the drain pan for standing water, indicating a blockage or improper drainage. If not addressed, water could leak causing water damage and mold growth from standing water."
AC condensation line: The condensation line carries moisture from the AC unit to the outside. Examine the condensation line for blockages and ensure proper flow. This is essential for preventing water damage.
Outdoor AC condenser and blower fan: Look for debris that can obstruct airflow and reduce efficiency. Leaves, grass and dirt can accumulate around the condenser, impacting its performance.
AC refrigerant levels: Ensure that the refrigerant levels are within the manufacturer's recommended range. Low refrigerant levels can reduce cooling efficiency and cause the system to work harder, increasing energy consumption and wear on the unit.
AC electrical components: The electrical components of an AC system include wiring, capacitors and contactors. Check the wiring and connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage. Loose or damaged wiring can cause electrical malfunctions and pose a safety hazard.
Capacitors help start the compressor and blower motor, while contactors control the flow of electricity to the AC unit. Any issues with these components can prevent the system from operating correctly.
Airflow inspection: During an air flow inspection, several key elements are checked to ensure that air is circulating correctly throughout the system and into the home. If air isn't coming out of some vents, you may have an issue with your airflow.
Inspecting for air duct leaks and testing for proper air flow: Ductwork distributes conditioned air from the HVAC unit to various parts of the home. Look for ductwork leaks that can significantly reduce system efficiency by allowing conditioned air to escape before it reaches the intended areas.
Also, imbalanced airflow can lead to hot or cold spots in the home – this can reduce comfort and increase energy costs. Technicians use specialized tools to measure air flow rates and adjust the system to ensure that air is evenly distributed throughout the home.
Common problems found during HVAC inspection and quick fixes
During an HVAC inspection, several common problems are often identified. Addressing these issues promptly is essential for maintaining the system's efficiency and safety.
- Gas line leak
- Cracked heat exchanger
- Exhaust venting problems
- Dying blower motor
- Clogged condensate drain line
- Faulty wiring
- Under or overcharged refrigerant
- Cracked or leaky ductwork
- Dirty or clogged filters
- Dirty or clogged evaporator coil
Is the heat not working in the house? Here’s how you can fix it
- Check the thermostat: Ensure that your thermostat is set to "heat" and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Replace batteries if necessary.
- Inspect the furnace: Verify that the furnace power switch is on and check for any tripped circuit breakers. Reset if needed.
- Replace air filters: Dirty air filters can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to shut down. Replace filters regularly.
- Pilot light or ignition system: Ensure the pilot light is lit for older furnaces. For newer models, check the electronic ignition system.
- Check vents and ducts: Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed. Inspect ducts for any signs of leaks or blockages.
When the heat stops working in your home, it can be uncomfortable and stressful. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Does your AC smell musty? Here’s how you can fix It.
A musty smell from your AC can be annoying. Here’s how to identify and fix the issue:
- Identify the cause: Musty odors usually stem from mold or mildew in the ductwork, evaporator coil or drain pan.
- Clean the evaporator coil: Turn off the AC and clean the evaporator coil with a mixture of water and mild detergent.
- Clear the drain pan: Empty and clean the drain pan to prevent standing water where mold can grow.
- Change air filters: Replace dirty air filters to improve airflow and reduce moisture buildup.
- Use a dehumidifier: Lowering humidity levels in your home can help prevent mold and mildew growth.
How much does an HVAC inspection cost?
A standard HVAC inspection typically costs between $70 and $500. Prices fluctuate depending on the size of the home, the equipment that needs inspection and the kind of service provided.
How long does an HVAC inspection take?
A typical HVAC inspection usually takes between 1-2 hours to complete. However, the duration can vary based on several factors.
The home's size and the HVAC system's complexity are primary considerations. Larger homes with more extensive ductwork or multiple HVAC units will naturally take longer to inspect thoroughly. Additionally, if the system hasn't been maintained regularly, more time might be needed to clean and check all components, mainly if issues like blocked ducts or dirty coils are found.
What are the limitations of an HVAC inspection?
While HVAC inspections are comprehensive, there are certain limitations. Inspectors can check accessible components such as the thermostat, furnace, ductwork and electrical connections.
However, they cannot inspect hidden system parts without dismantling them, which typically requires additional authorization or a separate service call.
Furthermore, inspectors can't predict future failures but can only assess current conditions. Despite these limitations, thorough inspections are crucial for identifying immediate issues and ensuring efficient system operation.
HVAC inspections and home warranties
Home warranties* often cover HVAC systems and can provide significant peace of mind. These warranties can cover repair costs for system failures due to normal wear and tear. Home warranty coverage ensures that if an HVAC issue is discovered during an inspection, the repair or replacement costs may be partially or fully covered, depending on the specifics of your plan.
*The product being offered is a service contract and is separate and distinct from any product or service warranty which may be provided by the home builder or manufacturer.
To take advantage of this, homeowners should report any discovered issues promptly and follow the warranty provider's claim process. This proactive approach helps maintain the HVAC system and manage unexpected repair costs effectively.
Inspecting your HVAC on your own may seem like a huge undertaking. However, if you follow the steps outlined above, it can be easier and more manageable. Remember that some maintenance is better than none and you may be able to identify issues early that could save you from needing major repairs. Check our blog regularly for more helpful tips and information on everything related to your home.
* The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.
* Our blogs and articles may link to third-party sites that offer products, services, coaches, consultants, and/or experts. Any such link is provided for reference only and not intended as an endorsement or statement that the information provided by the other party is accurate. We are not compensated for any products or services purchased from these third-party links.