Quick Decision Guide
Why homeowners schedule hvac inspection
Maintenance is most valuable before peak demand, when small wear items can still be caught cheaply and early.
Good times to schedule
- You want to reduce the chance of a surprise mid-season breakdown.
- The system still runs, but efficiency, airflow, or comfort has slipped.
- You want a professional read on system condition before spending on repairs or upgrades.
Why homeowners choose PULSE
What you can expect
- We check the equipment more thoroughly than a basic visual once-over.
- You get clearer guidance on what needs attention now versus later.
- Cleaner operation, safer performance, and fewer seasonal surprises are the goal.
Service details and pricing
The overview below explains how this service works, common problems we see, and what Sacramento homeowners should expect before scheduling.
An HVAC inspection gives you an accurate picture of what you have — its age, condition, efficiency, and any issues that need attention. Whether you're buying a home, selling, or simply want peace of mind, a PULSE inspection is thorough, documented, and performed by a licensed HVAC technician.
What We Inspect
Cooling System
- Equipment model and age
- Refrigerant pressure and temperature (verify proper charge)
- Condenser coil condition (clean, fins straight, no damage)
- Evaporator coil condition
- Capacitors and contactors (tested with meters)
- Electrical connections (tight, no corrosion)
- Line set condition and insulation
- Temperature split at supply registers (verify proper operation)
Heating System
- Equipment model and age
- Heat exchanger visual inspection (and CO test for gas systems)
- Ignition system function
- Gas valve and burner operation
- Safety control testing (limit switch, pressure switches)
- Flue venting condition
Air Distribution
- Ductwork condition — visible sections inspected for damage, disconnects, or signs of leakage
- Air filter condition
- Supply and return register locations and condition
- Static pressure measurement (verify adequate airflow)
- Thermostat operation and calibration
Air Quality and Safety
- Carbon monoxide test for gas systems
- Evidence of mold or moisture in the air handler
- Condensate drain operation
Pre-Purchase Inspections
If you're buying a Sacramento home, the general home inspection often misses HVAC details that can mean $5,000–$15,000 in deferred maintenance. We work with buyers and their agents to schedule HVAC inspections during the inspection contingency period.
Common findings in Sacramento home purchases:
- Aging equipment past useful life — Many Sacramento homes have original HVAC from the 1990s or early 2000s. A 25-year-old furnace or a 20-year-old AC may work on inspection day but is a near-term replacement cost.
- Cracked heat exchangers — A safety issue in older gas furnaces; not always caught by general home inspectors
- Low refrigerant — Indicates a leak; the system may seem to work but will fail under Sacramento summer loads
- Disconnected or damaged ductwork — Common in crawlspace systems; reduces efficiency significantly
- Undersized equipment — Previous owners may have installed undersized AC that never fully cools the home on 105°F days
Pre-Listing Inspections for Sellers
Sellers who get a PULSE inspection before listing often avoid renegotiation surprises. We give you an honest condition report you can disclose upfront — and we'll quote any repairs or replacements at the same visit.
How Much Does an HVAC Inspection Cost?
A comprehensive PULSE HVAC inspection is $149–$199 depending on system complexity. The inspection includes a written report delivered within 24 hours. If you proceed with any repair or replacement based on our findings, the inspection fee is applied toward the work.
For real estate transactions, we can often accommodate same-week scheduling during inspection contingency periods. Call us with your timeline and we'll make it work.
After the Inspection
Your written report will include:
- System age and model numbers
- Condition rating for each major component (Good / Fair / Poor / Safety Concern)
- Estimated remaining useful life
- Repair or replacement recommendations with priority levels
- Estimated cost ranges for any recommended work
You can use this report for negotiation, planning, or simply knowing what you have.