When you hire a technician to perform an HVAC inspection on your system, they do more than simply make sure it turns on. inspections provide actionable data about your comfort system’s performance, safety, and operating efficiency so that minor issues can be addressed before costly problems are likely to occur. Through thorough testing and detailed documentation, professional inspections help you increase efficiency, avoid emergency repairs, and keep your indoor air healthy every season.
Why inspections are important for your comfort
All heating and cooling systems degrade with use. Dampers stick, filters get clogged, coils become dirty, electrical connections can loosen over time, and airflow can deviate from optimal levels. These are natural occurrences of HVAC ownership and each one by itself isn’t typically a huge concern. However, when they start to overlap then not only can your utility bills skyrocket, but you can also experience poor comfort in rooms throughout your home. By removing the guesswork and looking at hard numbers, HVAC inspections help you understand exactly what is causing your comfort system to operate below its capabilities and what needs to be addressed first.
What happens during an HVAC inspection
HVAC inspections take a look at the system as a whole and how it operates together. This can include inspecting the thermostat and other controls, examining blower performance, checking evaporator and condenser coil condition, verifying proper refrigerant charge, electrical testing, and more. Airflow is measured and compared to design specs, heat transfer efficiency is measured on coils, and electrical values are checked against known values from the manufacturer. If you have a gas furnace or boiler, proper combustion safety will also be verified.
With documented proof of where your system stands, it becomes much easier to pinpoint exactly what needs attention. Whether it be short cycling, freezing evaporator coils, or increasing energy bills, you’ll know what aspect of your HVAC system is having problems whether that is airflow, refrigerant charge, or control issues.
Early detection equals money saved
It doesn’t take long for small problems to turn into big expensive repairs. One of the biggest benefits of preventive HVAC maintenance is finding issues before they become urgent. Air conditioner capacitors don’t usually fail without several weeks (if not months) of weakening performance beforehand. Similarly, duct leaks can go unnoticed for years before they need repair, and refrigerant levels will slowly decline before they reach critically low levels. Technicians can discover these problems early on and save you the headaches of dealing with an emergency breakdown.
Increased energy efficiency means money in your pocket
Ongoing HVAC inspections will increase the efficiency of your system by identifying areas of weakness and helping you correct them. Cleaning dirty coils increases heat transfer, checking refrigerant levels makes sure your system operates at the highest efficiency possible, sealing duct leaks prevents waste, and adjusting thermostat calibration can cut down on extra run time.
Not every homeowner will notice dramatic changes in their monthly energy bills after an inspection and subsequent tune up, but many will. That energy savings will continue every season your comfort system runs properly.
Extend the lifespan of your equipment
HVAC equipment tends to fail faster when it’s consistently working hard. When airflow is restricted, coils are dirty, and electrical components are out of balance, your air conditioner or furnace is forcing the motors and compressors to work overtime. Through routine maintenance inspections, some of that stress can be alleviated by ensuring your system is running as it should be according to manufacturer specifications. Eventually, that could mean extra years of life for your comfort equipment before you need to think about replacing it.
Helps with air quality and keeps you safe
Although not readily seen, your indoor air quality is very dependent on how well your HVAC system is running. Dirty coils lead to excess moisture and drain problems. Leaky ducts can draw in unwanted dust and debris from outside. An HVAC inspection will help you identify these problems and take the proper steps to not only correct them but help with your homes filtration, humidity levels, and ventilation requirements.
Safety is another reason why inspections are so important. During each visit, technicians will check for issues that can lead to unsafe operation of your comfort equipment. Combustion analysis, venting size verification, and carbon monoxide testing are only a few examples of what we look for to ensure your family is safe and your equipment is running safely.
Get the facts with documented reports
Another valuable asset to professional HVAC inspections is the customized reports you will receive after each visit. Maintenance records are extremely important to keep, not only does it ensure you are keeping your manufacturer warranty valid, but they can also help boost your home's resale value. Not to mention it gives you peace of mind by knowing how your HVAC system is operating. Having a detailed report that breaks down what measurements were taken, what we found, and what you can do help you plan ahead for any future upgrades or repairs that may be needed.
Knowledgeable professionals are key
There is more to HVAC inspections than simply checking off a list of tasks to complete. Salmon HVAC technicians are trained to recognize certain patterns and troubleshoot problems that some DIY checklists won’t advise you to look into. By understanding how airflow, temperature splits, electrical current, and refrigerant values should operate together we can guide you through the most cost-effective solution instead of just recommending new equipment. When you choose to work with Salmon HVAC, you can rest assured that your inspection will be comprehensive, documented, and done with your comfort systems long-term health in mind.
Yearly inspections are one of the best investments you can make
HVAC inspections may be one of the best investments you will make when owning a home. Not only will you save money on inefficient energy use, but you can also prevent premature breakdowns that happen when your HVAC system is neglected. Proper annual maintenance can also improve your home's comfort, keep your family safe, and extend the life of your comfort equipment. Think of your yearly inspection as one of your homes tuned up for the upcoming season.
FAQ
Q1: How often should I get an HVAC inspection done?
A: In most homes, we recommend at least one inspection per year. Some homeowners prefer to have HVAC inspections done twice per year, once before cooling season and once before heating season begins.
Q2: What should I expect during an HVAC inspection?
A: Airflow measurements, refrigerant level verification, electrical testing, and examination of your unit's coils and filters are just some of the many things we do during an inspection. Calibrating or replacing your thermostat and inspecting your systems safety features are also common HVAC inspection tasks.
Q3: Will HVAC inspections decrease my energy bills?
A: They can! By restoring proper airflow to your HVAC system and verifying that the refrigerant charge is correct you could see a decrease in your energy bills by reducing waste.
Q4: Do new HVAC systems need inspections?
A: HVAC inspections are just as important for new systems. Even if your system was installed correctly, having it inspected will ensure it is running properly and keep you within the manufacturer's guidelines.
Q5: Will HVAC inspections near me really save me money?
A: If you wait until your system isn’t working before calling for help, then most likely you will pay significantly more for your repairs. HVAC inspections can seem like an unnecessary expense until you have to pay for an emergency repair over the weekend or on a holiday when the temperature is at an extreme.
