Why Aren't Air Conditioners Tested During a Home Inspection in Cold Weather?

Air conditioners are a staple of comfort in many homes, especially during those sweltering summer months. But if you’ve ever bought or sold a home in the winter, you might have noticed something curious: the home inspector probably didn’t test the air conditioning system. Why is that?

It’s all about protecting your investment. Most central air conditioning units are designed to run efficiently in warm weather. When outside temperatures drop below about 60°F (16°C), running the AC can actually harm the system. The oil inside the compressor thickens in the cold, which means the moving parts don’t get the lubrication they need. Trying to operate the unit under these conditions can cause mechanical stress or even permanent damage to the compressor—a costly repair no one wants!

Because of this, home inspection standards and manufacturer guidelines both recommend not turning on the AC during chilly weather. Instead, here’s what inspectors typically do:

• Visually inspect the unit for signs of physical damage or leaks
• Check the age and overall condition of the system
• Review maintenance records, if available
• Note any concerns and recommend further evaluation when temperatures rise

While it might feel like a missed step, this approach actually safeguards your system. If you’re buying a home in the winter, you can always arrange for a professional HVAC check-up once the weather warms up. This way, you’ll know the system is safe to test—and you’ll avoid the risk of expensive repairs.

Still have questions about home inspections or your air conditioning system? Reach out anytime—I’m here to help make your home buying journey as smooth and informed as possible!