AC Inspection Guide: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Does the news keep hitting you with incoming ‘hot’ summer warnings, and you are not sure if the AC unit is going to function properly? The solution is to do an AC inspection before the hot winds start arriving and repair anything that needs repairing. Before doing that, however, you need to know about the whole process so that you don’t go in blind, and that’s what this article is all about.

What Is an AC Inspection?

Air conditioner inspection is an annual checkup that aims to make sure that all the different components of your AC unit are working as they should. The inspection prioritizes safety, efficiency, and reliability. Now, if you’re wondering if you can just do a quick check on your own, you can, but only surface-level checks, and if you want a full assessment, you need to hire an HVAC specialist to do that for you.

When Should You Get an AC Inspection?

There are certain times that we recommend people get their AC units assessed:

• Once a Year: Right before the start of summer, or even better, in the spring (since warm weather arrives sooner these days), is a good time to have a look at your AC unit to make certain it can handle the heat.
  
  
• Before Buying or Selling a House: If you are purchasing a new home, it’s a good idea to hire an HVAC technician to inspect the AC unit to find any issues before moving in. Also, it’s good to sell your house knowing that the AC is working well for the future owners.
  
  
• After Severe Weather: When your outdoor unit is exposed to some very harsh natural events such as heavy storms or rainfalls, making sure the unit is unharmed or affected in any way can be of importance.
  
  
• When Noticing an Issue: Obvious problems like blowing warm air instead of cool air, making unusual noises, smelling funny, weak airflow, water leaks, etc., need to be addressed immediately.
  
  
• Inactive for Long Periods: If the unit has not been used for many months, there’s a good chance it needs a checkup before getting turned on again, if you don’t want any hassles while using it.

What Does an AC Inspection Include?

There are many things in AC systems that need to be taken care of by an expert. Here are the most important ones (an AC maintenance checklist should look similar as well):

• The air filter needs to be cleaned of dirt and debris to improve airflow and air quality.
  
  
• Evaporator and condenser coils should also be taken a look at and cleaned in case of debris, mold, or ice formation.
  
  
• The fan and the blower motor must be looked at to ensure proper airflow.
  
  
• The thermostat must be working correctly in order to have precise temperature readings.
  
  
• The expert needs to check the refrigerant lines and see if there are any visible leaks, insulation damage, or corrosion.
  
  
• Looking at all the electrical connections to make sure there are no loose wires or damage to those wires.
  
  
• Capacitors and contactors must be functioning correctly since they help start and run the AC’s compressor and fan motors.
  
  
• Condensate drain line & pan should be inspected for any clogs, leaks, or still water that can lead to water damage and mold growth.

Electrical Inspection is also an option in case you think you need it.

How Much Does an AC Inspection Cost in Toronto?

Below you can find the average AC inspection cost in Toronto according to websites such as smilehvac.ca and airpoint.ca:

You should know that there are several aspects that can influence the costs we just mentioned:

• Type of Inspection: More comprehensive ones cost significantly more.
  
  
• The Reputation and Expertise of the Company: Established ones charge more.
  
  
• Age & Complexity of System: Very old systems and complex ones take more effort and tools to inspect, therefore costing more.
  
  
• Spring Specials: You can find discounted services around spring to encourage proactive maintenance.

If you live in the countryside and ever worry about termites, Termite Inspection might be a good idea.

Benefits of Regular AC Inspection

There are many benefits coming from AC inspection on a regular basis:

1. Better Efficiency and Lower Bills

Regular checkups make sure that the system is working optimally, and as a result, your electricity bills are going to be at expected levels.

2. Your AC System Will Live Longer

By undertaking regular inspections, you always fix the little problems so that they never turn into big ones, and this way you will extend the lifespan of the unit(s).

3. Cleaner Air Inside

You will breathe cleaner air inside your house by doing regular inspections and cleaning.

4. Safe at All Times

You won’t have to worry about any potentially ‘dangerous’ issues such as electrical shorts, leaks, or water damage.

5. Keep Cool

Doing checkups ensures that you stay cool inside your home at the peak of heat without having to be concerned about any of the AC components acting up.

FAQs

1. How often should I have my AC inspected?

Once a year, either before summer or during spring, if the weather has started heating up sooner than June.

2. Can I perform an AC inspection myself?

Basic inspections? Sure. You can clean the filters and the surroundings of the units, but thorough inspections require professionals.

3. Are AC inspections covered by warranty?

No, not typically. AC inspections are paid by property owners themselves, and actually, annual inspections are sometimes required by companies to keep the warranty valid.

4. How long does a typical AC inspection take?

Usually around half an hour to an hour or more, depending on the condition of the system, its age, and complexity.

5. What should I do if my AC fails the inspection?

You would need to call a company to send professionals to fix any problems found by the inspectors.

If you ever need a home inspection, Yearly Home Inspection is a good read, and in Ontario, our own website, houmse offers experts at fair prices.

Final Thoughts: Keep Your AC Running Efficiently

So, is it worth it to have your AC system inspected each year? Our answer would be that it is really up to you. If you think a simple cleanup of the units is going to get the job done, then you can do that. But if you have already had issues in the past with your units, a yearly checkup is a good idea, and we do recommend it. To be aware of the process and the prices, this post tells you all you need to know.