System Condition Check
Know exactly what your system is doing, and whether to repair or replace it, before cold weather forces the call.
What Goes Wrong
A surface-level check misses the measurements that actually tell you what the system is doing.
Without a refrigerant pressure reading, a low charge goes undetected and the compressor runs under stress until it fails.
Superheat and subcooling values are measured against the manufacturer’s spec to confirm the charge is correct.
A reversing valve that sticks in one mode means the system heats when it should cool, or vice versa, and the fault is easy to overlook visually.
The reversing valve is tested through both modes to confirm it switches cleanly and holds position under normal operating pressure.
A capacitor or contactor near failure draws abnormal current but shows no visible damage, so a visual-only check leaves the risk in place.
Blower motor amp draw and contactor condition are tested against rated values to catch components that are failing before they cause a shutdown.
A verbal summary after the visit gives you no basis for comparing repair cost against replacement cost when the next failure happens.
You receive a written record of every measurement taken, what is within spec, and what is not, so any repair decision is grounded in data.
Inspection Scope
Each check targets a specific component or circuit where a hidden fault can cut efficiency or cause a breakdown.
Superheat and subcooling are measured to confirm the refrigerant charge is within the manufacturer’s specified range.
Both coils are checked for fouling, fin damage, and airflow restriction that reduce heat transfer and raise energy draw.
Contactor pitting and capacitor microfarad readings are checked to catch components that are close to failure.
Measured amp draw is compared to the motor’s rated current to identify a motor running outside its normal operating band.
The reversing valve is cycled through both modes and the defrost control is tested to confirm reliable cold-weather operation.
The condensate drain is checked for blockage and the thermostat’s calibration is verified against actual supply air temperature.
Airflow measured at the air handler to catch restrictions.
Full system check timed before Lakewood’s cold months.
Written recommendation based on measured findings.
Why Choose Us
Accountability and process, not just a technician showing up and looking around.
Every enquiry produces an itemised written estimate covering scope and timeline before a visit is confirmed.
We start with a review of the existing equipment’s condition, not a sales conversation about replacement options.
We schedule an assessment built around the Colorado Front Range climate and its demands on heat pump systems.
A post-visit review confirms the written summary matches what was measured, so nothing is left as a verbal impression.
Every visit covers all three system types, so the scope matches your actual equipment rather than a single product line.
Pricing Estimates
| Inspection type | Typical cost | Typical duration |
|---|---|---|
| Basic inspection | $150-$250 | 1-2 hours |
| Full system evaluation | $200-$350 | 2-3 hours |
| Pre-repair diagnostic | $150-$300 | 1-2 hours |
Common Questions
A running heat pump that fails to heat or cool properly usually points to low refrigerant, a dirty coil, a failing compressor, or a duct leak bleeding conditioned air before it reaches the rooms. An inspection checks each of these in sequence, so the actual cause gets identified rather than guessed at.
Yes. Heat pumps run year-round as both heater and air conditioner, so components wear faster than a system used only one season. Regular inspections catch refrigerant loss, coil fouling, and electrical faults early, before they become breakdowns. Skipping checks is the most common reason systems fail ahead of their expected lifespan.
Once a year is the standard minimum, but twice a year, once before the heating season and once before cooling season, is better for a system that runs continuously. Annual checks catch wear before it becomes a fault; twice-yearly checks also confirm the reversing valve and defrost cycle are ready for the next season.
A thorough inspection covers refrigerant charge, coil condition on both the indoor and outdoor units, electrical connections and capacitors, airflow and filter restriction, thermostat calibration, defrost cycle operation, and the condition of the reversing valve. The technician also checks for unusual noise or vibration that signals mechanical wear.
Yes. An inspection gives you a clear picture of the system’s current condition, remaining component life, and any active faults. With that information you can weigh the cost of repair against the age and efficiency of the unit and make a grounded decision rather than guessing. See repair vs. replacement options.
No. Most inspections find minor issues, a dirty coil, a loose connection, low refrigerant, that are straightforward to fix. Replacement only comes up when the inspection reveals a failed compressor, severe refrigerant loss from a cracked component, or a system old enough that repair costs outweigh the value of keeping it.
Guide prices run from $150-$250 (Basic inspection) to $200-$350 (Full system evaluation). A written scope is provided before any work is booked, so there are no surprise charges on the day.
Guide prices run from $150-$250 (Basic inspection) to $200-$350 (Full system evaluation). The price covers a full condition assessment of the system, with a written summary of findings. Complex systems, such as multi-zone mini-splits or geothermal loops, may sit toward the higher end of that range.
We cover Heat Pump Inspection in and around Lakewood, including Arvada, Colorado, Bear Creek, Colorado, Belmar, Colorado, Edgewater, Colorado, Golden, Colorado, Denver, Colorado, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, Littleton, Colorado, Morrison, Colorado, Ken Caryl, Colorado and Columbine, Colorado. If your area isn’t listed, send us a quick message to check.
Describe your system and we’ll schedule a full inspection and deliver the findings in writing before any work is booked.