Inspecting a Central HVAC

Many people would like to know what we inspect when we inspect a central air conditioning unit. The first thing we look for is if the unit is sized correctly for the amount of sq. footage of the house. Every 650 sq. ft of house needs approximately a ton of cooling as it takes more energy to cool a house. A 2500 sq. ft. property will need approximately 4 tons of cooling capacity.

The primary function of a cooling system is to first dehumidify, then to condition the air. If the unit is not properly sized for property conditions, cooler ductwork will cause water to condense and stain the ceiling. We look for clues to see if the unit is working properly:

* We will take several temperature readings at the supply registers;
* We will take note of the compressor size in comparison to area served;
* We will note if the HVAC system is servicing 2 levels;
* Are there thermostats on both levels being serviced;
* Are there return air grills on each level being serviced;
* We will note the temperature conditions on both levels - Supply temperature in relation to return air temperatures;
* We will note the humidity levels on both levels;
* We will note if water stains are present under service runs or around system registers especially in basement homes.

By taking all of these factors into consideration, we can make an educated guess as to the system’s performance. If we see water stains, undersized units or inconsistent temperatures, we generally call for a professional to further evaluate the unit.

Home Inspection Fees In The New York/Long Island Area.

"What does the inspection cost?" Too often this seems to be the first question when someone calls us for home inspection information. Asking about qualifications and experience should be the most important and first questions our phone callers should ask. Just as in all professions the level of experience and talent of home inspectors varies. The size and age of homes varies. The amount of work and knowledge to do a thorough inspection varies from home to home. Unfortunately most people get consumed with price and fail to see the benefits of hiring a highly qualified inspector versus one which has very little experience.

In New York home inspectors are licensed and to obtain a New York State Home Inspector License you need to complete a 140 hour class and receive a grade of 70 on a state test. I agree that licensing is better than no licensing, but to try and teach someone all the systems and problems a home inspector will come across in a 140 hour class is impossible. If you are looking to hire a home inspector look for other credentials other than a home inspector license, such as other licensing, certifications or education relating to home construction. I believe you really want a home inspector who has more education and experience than the required 140 hour class. A home inspector license is a starting point but more experience is necessary to complete a thorough inspection.

Lets talk about Money: Most homes in the areas we inspect range from $300K to millions of dollars. In the New York/Long Island area home inspection fees may vary normally by as much as $200 with the mean price for a home inspection being in the $400-$600 range. In most cases if you called 5 inspectors you may get a difference in pricing of less than $100. However the difference in the quality of the inspection and the experience of the inspector could wind up costing you much more than the $100-$200 you saved on the home inspection fee. The value of a good thorough home inspection and report can be only be measured by its usefulness. If a thorough inspection turns up little wrong with the house, you've bought some relatively inexpensive peace of mind. If the inspection finds serious problems, your cost could end up saving you many thousands of dollars.