Cooling equipment in El Paso runs for most of the year, in triple-digit heat, dust, and some of the hardest water in Texas. That combination wears out HVAC systems in predictable ways. This post focuses on the failures we find most often. For a full walkthrough of what we evaluate on refrigerated air and evaporative coolers, see HVAC Inspection in El Paso: What Gets Checked and What Wears Out First.
Dirty and Damaged Condenser Coils
The outdoor condenser has to shed heat into air that is often over 100°F. When its coil fins are packed with dust or bent flat, it cannot do that efficiently, so the system runs longer and the compressor works harder. We note coil condition, fin damage, and debris on every condenser we evaluate.
Condensate Drain Problems
Refrigerated air systems remove moisture from indoor air, and that water has to go somewhere. Clogged condensate lines, missing or rusted secondary drain pans, and lines that discharge next to the foundation are common findings. When an air handler sits in the attic, a clogged drain can mean water damage to the ceiling below.
Evaporative Cooler Pads, Pumps, and Float Valves
Swamp coolers are simple, but El Paso's hard water is hard on them. Mineral-crusted pads restrict airflow, pumps fail, float valves stick, and the cooler housing and pan rust through. Coolers that were not drained and winterized can suffer freeze damage. A cooler that sits on the roof also adds roof penetrations and a curb that has to stay sealed.
Ductwork in Hot Attics
El Paso attics get extremely hot in summer. Ducts with deteriorated insulation, disconnected joints, or crushed flex duct lose conditioned air before it reaches the rooms. Undersized return air is another frequent finding and makes the whole system work harder. We trace accessible ductwork in the attic and use thermal imaging to help identify temperature patterns consistent with duct leaks.
Aging Equipment
Equipment that runs for much of the year accumulates wear faster than the same unit in a milder climate. We record the manufacture date from the data plate, run the system, and measure the temperature difference between return and supply air. We do not predict exactly when a system will fail, but age combined with what we observe gives you a realistic picture to plan and negotiate with.
What a Home Inspection Does Not Do
A home inspection is a visual, non-invasive evaluation. We do not attach refrigerant gauges, measure refrigerant charge, disassemble equipment, or calculate system efficiency. If we observe conditions that call for a closer look, such as a system that is not cooling adequately, signs of a refrigerant leak, or concerns at a gas furnace, the report will recommend evaluation by a licensed HVAC contractor. Schedule that during your option period.
HVAC is evaluated as part of every buyer's inspection, new construction inspection, and 11-month warranty inspection we perform in El Paso TX, Las Cruces NM, and surrounding communities. Call or text (915) 209-2332, or schedule online.