Inspection Insight Pics: Heat, Ac, & Hot Water

Comfort starts with climate control—and ends with a hot shower. At Arrow Home Inspections, we go straight to the point by evaluating your home’s heating, cooling, and hot water systems, whether you're working with a 1920s steam radiator, a modern mini-split, or a tankless water heater. These systems are the unsung heroes of daily living, but they’re often overlooked until something goes wrong.

We check the type, fuel source, visible condition, and performance of each system, while noting any red flags like corrosion, poor venting, or aging components. Whether it’s a boiler in the basement or an AC condenser in the yard, we help you understand how it works, how long it might last, and what to expect for comfort and efficiency year-round.

• Corroded boiler pipes or rust on heat exchangers, which can reduce efficiency and signal system decline
   
• Unlabeled or missing emergency shut-offs, complicating safe servicing or emergency response
   
• Improper flue venting or backdrafting, especially on gas/oil units—can pose serious safety risks
   
• Noisy or unbalanced steam radiators, common in older homes with legacy systems
   

• Mini-split systems with condensate leaks or poor installation, leading to wall or ceiling damage
   
• Aged AC units that still run but don’t cool effectively, especially those 15+ years old
   
• Blocked or debris-filled outdoor condensers, reducing airflow and system performance
   

• Rust or corrosion on tank exteriors, indicating a system nearing end-of-life
   
• Improperly installed TPR (Temperature Pressure Relief) valves, which are essential for safe operation
   
• Missing expansion tanks on closed-loop systems, risking overpressure damage
   
• Lack of vent clearance or improper venting on gas-fired units, especially in tight enclosures
   

👉 Explore our HVAC and hot water system photo gallery to see what we find during inspections because reliable comfort isn’t just about having heat and AC, it’s about knowing they’re working safely and efficiently.