Reno Home Inspection: AC and Heating Terms

Inspection reports in the Reno area often cover three kinds of equipment: a central AC or heat pump, a furnace, and sometimes a rooftop evaporative cooler. The short explanations below help you read those notes. Your inspector saw the equipment, so rely on their findings and ask about anything unclear.

Cooling

Temperature differential — The difference between return air and supply air during cooling. A low reading can point to low refrigerant, a dirty coil or poor airflow.

Condenser coil dirty / fins damaged — Dust and debris packed into the outdoor coil, common in windy areas. Cleaning usually restores performance.

Not tested due to outdoor temperature — AC often isn't run on cold days to protect the compressor. It's a gap in the inspection, not a defect.

Evaporative coolers

Pads deteriorated / mineral buildup — Worn or crusted pads reduce cooling and can smell. Replacement is routine maintenance.

Cooler not winterized — Water lines and the pan should be drained before freezing weather. See evaporative coolers.

Roof curb / duct leak — Water stains below a roof cooler suggest leaks at the curb or duct.

Furnaces

Heat exchanger not fully visible — Most of the heat exchanger can't be seen without taking the furnace apart. A technician can check it more closely.

Vent pipe / flue concerns — Gaps, poor slope or blocked terminations in vent pipes need attention for safety.

CO alarm missing — Homes with gas appliances should have carbon monoxide alarms near sleeping areas.

Age and planning

Near end of typical service life — Older equipment that still works but may need replacement soon. Plan ahead rather than wait for a failure.

Service records not provided — No sign of recent maintenance. A tune-up after you move in is a sensible first step. See AC maintenance.

How serious is it?

• Monitor: dirty filter, dusty condenser coil, worn cooler pads.
• Fix soon: missing CO alarms, vent pipe issues, cooler leaks, weak temperature split.
• Before closing: no heat or cooling, gas smell, signs of a cracked heat exchanger.

For inspectors and agents

You're welcome to link this page for clients. Related: hiring a licensed HVAC contractor in Nevada · AC replacement · heat pumps