HVAC Inspection Checklist Guide (+ Free Checklist Download)
Using an HVAC inspection checklist for every maintenance job helps you care for your customers’ systems consistently and thoroughly.
With checklists that guarantee comprehensive testing, cleaning, and tune-up work, you’ll maintain smooth-running systems that need fewer repairs—freeing up your time and improving your customers’ lives.
Learn what tasks you need in your HVAC checklist for all kinds of systems, then download our printable HVAC inspection checklist template for free.
What to include in an HVAC preventative maintenance checklist
Include these types of tasks in all your HVAC maintenance checklists to complete proper inspections and tune-ups:
- Inspection tasks (e.g., checking gas pressure, suction and discharge pressure, air conditioner refrigerant charge, and electrical connections)
- Cleaning tasks (e.g., cleaning air filters, coils, burners, and any debris surrounding outdoor HVAC equipment)
- Replacing or repairing major parts like worn belts and pulleys, old air filters, faulty fan blades
- Replacing or repairing small parts like latches, screws, and gaskets
How often should HVAC systems be inspected?
You should inspect, clean, and tune up all HVAC systems at least once a year. Inspect heating systems in the fall and AC in the spring so your customers’ equipment is prepared to handle severe weather.
4 HVAC inspection checklists for different systems
Keep job checklists for every major system type so you and your HVAC technicians can properly inspect every component and part. Use these system-specific checklists at the job site and customize them as needed.
1. AC maintenance checklist
- Clean air filters as needed
- Change air filters monthly or twice a year
- Check air registers and ducts for cleanliness
- Check blower speed
- Inspect the blower assembly
- Correct refrigerant charge
- Check for refrigerant leaks
- Ensure that superheat and subcooling are correct
- Inspect and clean the condenser coil
- Inspect and clean the evaporator coil
- Check and clean the outdoor condensing unit
- Inspect the drain line
- Check the condensate drain pan for damage
- Check for loose electrical connections
- Verify that all the equipment has the correct voltage
- Inspect the suction and discharge pressure
- Lubricate motors and inspect belts for wear and tightness
- Ensure the control panel works properly
- Verify thermostat sensors are working properly
- Take note of any necessary AC repair work
FREE TOOL: Use our free HVAC work order generator to stay organized
2. Heat pump maintenance checklist
You can use most items in the air conditioning maintenance checklist for heat pumps, too, but be sure to add these tasks to your heat pump maintenance checklist:
- Check the exterior for snow or ice buildup (winter/spring)
- Remove leaves and other debris from around the heat pump (fall)
- Clean dirty outdoor coils
- Ensure the pump stays elevated from the ground and away from leaky gutters
- Check for and repair air duct leakage
READ MORE: 64 of the best tools for your HVAC business
3. Furnace maintenance checklist
- Clean or replace air filters (more frequently for homes with pets)
- Clear out dust, debris, or insects from surrounding area
- Check and clean air registers and ductwork
- Inspect all electrical wiring and controls
- Inspect and clean blowers
- Inspect the thermostat for proper operation
- Inspect heat exchangers
- Inspect belts and pulleys for tightness and wear
- Adjust and tighten unit panels
- Check and adjust manifold pressure
- Clean the ignitor, burners, burner manifold, and flame sensor
- Flush drains and taps to check for water leaks and drain line clogs
- Check for gas leak signs and symptoms
- Check and adjust the air and fuel mixture
- Inspect the venting and combustion air
- Check the flame rectification system
- Inspect heat exchanger and carbon monoxide detector
- Test and measure carbon monoxide levels
- Check flue pipe for proper airflow and fit
- Check the correct voltage for furnace equipment
- Check thermostat programming and operation
- Cycle the equipment to ensure that it is working
READ MORE: Free HVAC installation checklist (and how to create your own)
4. Tankless water heater inspection checklist
- Clean out sediment, dust, and oil from the water filter
- Check for water leaks surrounding the system
- Remove and clean dirt traps
- Inspect and clean the burner
- Inspect and clean the spark rod and flame sensor
- Inspect and clean the combustion chamber
- Check the hot water temperature
- Check flame visibility and performance
- Check if the relief valve is working properly
- Flush the hot water system with white distilled vinegar
Ready to take these checklists to the job site and complete five-star inspections? Customize each checklist from our PDF to fit your customers’ system and their manufacturers’ recommendations.
Then give a copy of your completed checklist to every customer after an inspection so they know what you’ve done.
Binders full of paper inspection checklists are a time-consuming headache. Be more efficient on maintenance jobs by checking off tasks from your smartphone or tablet.
Create custom site inspection checklists in Jobber to keep a digital, shareable record of the tasks you or your technicians have completed:
Then, send these checklists to customers online, in minutes. These to-do lists create accountability and ensure top-notch service on every single visit.