What to Expect During an HVAC Inspection
Regular HVAC inspections are designed to boost your heating and cooling system’s efficiency by identifying potential areas of trouble and resolving them. This summer is going to be hotter than average, and one of the most important steps you can take as a homeowner is scheduling your seasonal HVAC inspection. The best way to enjoy problem-free home comfort throughout the year is to schedule a biannual service with your trusted heating and cooling company.
Preventive air conditioning maintenance, like changing air filters, cleaning ducts, and inspecting for warning signs, will keep your HVAC system running at peak efficiency, potentially saving energy and lowering your cooling bills. During these inspections, your technician will not only ensure that your system is working efficiently, but also keep you up to date on the age, condition, and potential upgrades available for your heating and AC system.
Now let’s cover some basics about what your HVAC inspection will consist of, and what you as a homeowner can expect.
Important System Safety Checks
Your HVAC system incorporates several moving parts and electrical systems; if you have a gas-powered furnace or heater, this appliance also contains a combustion assembly as well. Over time, wear, dirt, and weather can affect the condition of these air conditioning components, posing a hazard if they are not checked regularly.
During an HVAC inspection, your technician will check that all the parts of your HVAC system are clean and in good repair to eliminate any safety hazards; additionally, any built-in safety measures will also be checked to ensure they are working properly. Your HVAC technician will also take a thorough look at any vents or flues to make sure they are clean, undamaged, and vented properly to the outdoors.
Because the condition of your HVAC system affects the quality of your indoor air, your technician will inspect your HVAC equipment and any associated ducts for dirt and dust buildup. If cleaning or repair is needed, your technician will alert you; in many cases, simple cleaning and maintenance can be performed immediately, but larger jobs, such as duct cleaning, may require additional appointments.
Assessment of Your Heating and Cooling Efficiency
The goal of HVAC inspections is not only to ensure home safety, but also to determine whether your furnace and air conditioner are meeting your current home comfort needs. Your HVAC system’s efficiency relies heavily on the condition, installation quality, and size of the appliances currently in your home. When your HVAC system is dirty or in poor repair, it must work harder to achieve home comfort, requiring more energy that leads to higher monthly totals on your cooling bills.
Similarly, a system that is not sized correctly or simply cannot meet your needs will consume excess energy and often leave you feeling less comfortable than you’d like. An HVAC inspection will identify areas where cleaning, repairs, or replacement could benefit your home in terms of overall heating and cooling efficiency.
In many cases, cleaning, lubrication, and minor repairs are all that’s needed to keep your HVAC system operating at peak output; however, your technician will also note issues such as aging or improperly sized appliances so you can consider alternative options, and if AC system replacement is necessary.
Your HVAC technician should perform the following services during your tune-up:
- Coolant level and pressure checks
- Thermostat calibration
- Electrical system inspection and tightening, including wiring, contacts, capacitors and relays
- Evaporator coil and condensate drain cleaning
- Cleaning and inspection of the condenser, outdoor disconnect, fan motor and blades
- Lubrication as needed
- Plus more safety and efficiency checks
You can expect the inspection process to take up to an hour, depending on the configuration of your system. If refrigerant is needed, then you can expect an additional 30-45 minutes. ARS/Rescue Rooter technicians will present your AC tune-up checklist upon completion and share any recommendations for your air conditioning system.
How Will the Cost of an HVAC Inspection Save Me Money?
While an HVAC tune-up does carry a small upfront cost, it will save you a significant amount of money in the long run. A few common air conditioning repair calls and breakdowns that you can expect to avoid include a blown capacitator, failed compressor, or clogged drain line. But preventable repairs aren’t the only place you’ll save. You’ll also enjoy lower utility bills, a longer equipment lifespan, and the peace of mind of having reliable cooling for the rest of the summer.
How Do I Know When to Schedule My Inspection?
It’s best to schedule regular tune-ups twice a year, at the beginning of each heating and cooling season. While HVAC maintenance may be scheduled any time, you’ll want to ensure that your system is working efficiently before the weather gets too hot.
With an ARS/Rescue Rooter Home Service Plan, you can take all the guesswork out HVAC maintenance with a set schedule of cleaning and tuning that ensures better performance, better energy efficiency and longer equipment lifespan. Our Home Service Plan includes two seasonal heating and air conditioning service tune-ups.
You’ll also enjoy preferred pricing HVAC service, repair and installation —as well as a 1-year warranty on repair parts and labor, flexible payment plans and priority emergency service. If you move, you can continue your service plan from anywhere within our service area.
Schedule Your HVAC Inspection Today!
A well-serviced HVAC is also your best defense against air conditioner burnouts and breakdowns. With the hottest days of the year still ahead of us, your HVAC could encounter a number of problems from clogged vents to faulty wiring, risking failure at the worst possible time.
Are you ready to discover the benefits of regular AC maintenance and HVAC inspections? Book an appointment for your heating and cooling system inspection today. Our experienced technicians are pleased to offer HVAC tune-ups and affordable ARS Home Service Plans to help you enjoy greater home efficiency and comfort.
