Importance of an HVAC Inspection Checklist

If you’re starting an HVAC service business, it’s important to standardize your service and stay organized and streamlined in procedure and behind the scenes. Of course, you already know how to inspect HVAC systems and how much to charge for that inspection, but you may need to be made aware of one critical tool that can help you stay on track; an HVAC inspection checklist. 

What is an HVAC Inspection Checklist and why do you need one?

An HVAC inspection checklist is a document created to inspect all aspects of an HVAC system to ensure the system runs smoothly and forecast potential issues. In some cases, you can use it to help predict your workflow. For example, what if several customers had issues that simultaneously needed repair on their systems? That would mean extra income for you.

The primary goal of an HVAC inspection checklist is to guide you through testing the capabilities of a system in an organized and streamlined manner. This can help you determine if the customer will need to repair or replace the system or add any accessories, such as surge protectors or leak guards.

Questions for you to ask the homeowner before you do the inspection:

• Date of last maintenance service
• Any repairs in the past 15 years
• Any seasonal issues or discomfort
• Inconsistent airflow
• How old is the system
• More allergy symptoms 
• Have they been replacing the filter regularly
• Strange odors or sounds
• Thermostat malfunctions

As a side note, ServiceWorks software can help track all these answers. How easy is that?

What your HVAC inspection checklist should include

Typically an HVAC inspection checklist comprises five key areas of interest. These five areas are:

• Air conditioner
• Heat pump
• Gas furnace
• Electric heater
• Double fuel heat pump furnace

Choose the type of checklist you want to make. There are many types of checklists you can make for HVAC inspections. For example, you may have a checklist designed for an electric furnace and a different one for gas. Or one only for the A/C during the spring to get systems in shape for summer. 

Figure out what tools or equipment you need to have on hand for the inspection. For example, what testing methods will you use, and will you want to have the checklist on paper or electronically?

That’s why it’s essential to figure out what your business needs and have those checklists ready to provide the most efficient use of time and money while providing your customer with the best service because you’re organized and systematic.

Sample HVAC inspection checklists

Here is a suggested Basic HVAC inspection checklist:

1. Facilitate a thermostat test
2. Check the air filters
3. Evaluate equipment condition
4. Monitor airflow
5. Ductwork
6. Check coolant levels
7. Check the following systems: furnace, gas connections, and exhaust
8. Check the drain and drip pans
9. Check the blower motor
10. Check any safety equipment
11. Assess the condenser, air handler or furnace, evaporator coil, electrical components, and compressor
12. Check signs of pests in the equipment 
13. Write a diagnostic with suggestions and findings

Sample AC inspection checklist:

1. Clean air filters as needed
2. Check air registers and ducts for cleanliness
3. Check the blower speed and inspect the blower assembly
4. Check refrigerant for leaks and correct the charge
5. Ensure superheating and subcooling are correct
6. Inspect and clean the condenser coil
7. Inspect and clean the evaporator coil
8. Check and clean the outdoor condensing unit
9. Inspect drain line
10. Check the drain pan for damage
11. Check for loose electrical connections
12. Verify that the equipment has the correct voltage
13. Inspect the suction and discharge pressure
14. Lubricate motors and inspect belts for wear and tightness
15. Ensure the control panel works properly
16. Verify thermostat sensors are working properly
17. Take note of any necessary AC repair work

Sample Furnace Inspection Checklist:

1. Clean or replace air filters 

2. Clear out dust and debris from the area

3. Check and clean air registers and ductwork

4. Inspect wiring and controls

5. Check blowers

   6. Make sure the thermostat is up to par

7. Check all belts and pulleys

8. Inspect manifold pressure

9. Clean the ignitor, burner manifold, and flame sensor

10. Check for gas leak signs and symptoms

11. Check the flue pipe

12. Check for carbon monoxide

13. Cycle the equipment to make sure it is working

HVAC Inspection Checklists are in the bag

Now that you have a clear idea of what these checklists are and why they are so essential to your business, let’s take it a step further by implementing a software program that can be a silent partner behind the scenes and help keep track of all these scheduled maintenance requests, equipment information, dates of maintenance ad what maintenance was performed and of course information about the client themselves. With ServiceWorks, you’ll be inspecting not only HVAC systems but increased customer satisfaction with all the efficiency and organizational benefits this software offers. The best part is there is a risk-free 14-day trial.