{"id":1747,"date":"2026-04-13T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-13T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/?p=1747"},"modified":"2026-05-13T15:08:27","modified_gmt":"2026-05-13T19:08:27","slug":"comfort-questions-with-caylen-congratulations-on-your-new-home-tips-on-a-home-inspection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/home-improvement\/comfort-questions-with-caylen-congratulations-on-your-new-home-tips-on-a-home-inspection\/","title":{"rendered":"Comfort Questions With Caylen: Congratulations on Your New Home! Tips on a Home Inspection"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Whether you\u2019ve just purchased your very first home or added another to your list, there are important steps you can take to make your home as comfortable and efficient<\/strong> as possible, by your<\/em> standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You might already have an idea of what those steps are\u2014but do you really know all of them?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re a first-time homeowner, you probably have friends, family, or professionals offering advice (sometimes more than you asked for!). And if you\u2019ve owned homes before, you may feel like you\u2019ve got it figured out\u2014but there might still be a few things you haven\u2019t considered, especially when it comes to your home\u2019s mechanical systems<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

No matter where you are in your homeownership journey, I\u2019m here to help you make the most of this exciting new chapter\u2014by understanding what\u2019s behind the walls, under the floors, and inside the systems that keep your home running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Don\u2019t Rely Solely on the Home Inspection<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Many homeowners depend on their home inspection to predict future problems before they buy. While a home inspection is an important step, it\u2019s not a crystal ball\u2014especially when it comes to your mechanical systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most home inspectors are knowledgeable about the overall structure and condition<\/strong> of a house: the foundation, roof, windows, and safety issues. However, when it comes to mechanical equipment<\/strong>\u2014like your furnace, air conditioner, or water heater\u2014their expertise is often limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They typically perform only basic operational checks<\/strong> to confirm that equipment turns on and runs, but those tests rarely reveal deeper issues such as efficiency loss, improper installation, or parts nearing failure. In short, an inspection can tell you that your system works today, but not how well it\u2019s working\u2014or how long it will continue to do so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take a Proactive Approach<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to take a few things into your own hands once you move in. Your home is one of your biggest investments, and understanding how its mechanical systems work\u2014and how to care for them\u2014can save you money, improve comfort, and extend the life of your equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rather than assuming everything is fine just because it \u201cpassed inspection,\u201d take some time to familiarize yourself with your HVAC system, water heater, and ventilation. A little attention now can prevent costly surprises later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steps Every Homeowner Should Take with Their Mechanical Systems<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once you\u2019ve settled into your new home, take a little time to get acquainted with the systems that keeps it running smoothly. Doing so will not only help you understand your home better but also prevent unnecessary repairs and energy waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Locate and Label Your Equipment<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Find your furnace, air conditioner, water heater, and any ventilation or filtration systems. Take note of the brand, model numbers, and installation dates. If there are shut-off switches or breaker controls nearby, label them clearly so you (or anyone else) can find them quickly in an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Register Your Equipment Warranties<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If the equipment is less than a year old, register it with the manufacturer in your name. Many homeowners miss this step, and as a result, lose valuable coverage that could save hundreds\u2014or even thousands\u2014of dollars down the road. Sometimes it has already been registered.\u00a0 You can check with a simple online search with the manufacturer’s name followed by \u201cwarranty look up\u201d.\u00a0 Typically, the sight will direct you with the necessary information needed to find what kind of warranty is left.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Schedule a Professional System Evaluation<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if your equipment seems to be running fine, have a licensed HVAC professional perform a full system check. A technician can test efficiency levels, measure airflow, inspect installation quality, and catch small issues before they become major breakdowns. Usually, this has a cost, but a minimal one under a couple of hundred dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Change or Clean Filters Regularly<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Airflow is everything when it comes to home comfort and system efficiency. One of the simplest\u2014and most important\u2014things you can do as a homeowner is to know what type of filter your system uses<\/strong> and how often it should be replaced or cleaned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dirty or incorrect filters are among the most common causes of poor performance and premature equipment failure. When you check your system, look carefully around the filter door or cabinet for specific filter part numbers or manufacturer recommendations<\/strong>. Most homes use a standard one-inch filter, but some systems require a particular size or type to perform correctly. Remember: just because a filter fits<\/em> doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s the right choice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Filters are rated by MERV or HEPA standards<\/strong>, which indicate how effectively they trap particles. Higher ratings capture smaller pollutants\u2014but they also create more resistance to airflow. That resistance affects how easily air moves through your system, which in turn impacts both efficiency and longevity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Think back to the pandemic when we all wore masks. Those masks were designed to block particulates from entering our lungs\u2014but the tighter the weave, the harder it was to breathe. Your furnace operates the same way. The blower motor is constantly trying to pull air through the filter below and push it across the \u201cradiator\u201d above (your air conditioner\u2019s evaporator coil). If the filter is too restrictive, your system has to work harder to move air, increasing wear and reducing comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Your home\u2019s ductwork, blower, and filter cabinet were engineered to work together<\/strong>\u2014to clean the air while keeping airflow resistance as low as possible. Using the correct filter type and maintaining it regularly helps your system breathe easier, keeps your indoor air cleaner, and extends the life of your equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Ask About Maintenance Plans<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many reputable HVAC companies offer maintenance plans that include seasonal tune-ups, priority service, and discounts on repairs. Signing up can take the guesswork out of remembering when to schedule maintenance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Look for companies with NATE Certified technicians and\/or Union represented technicians.  Those technicians are looked to be better because they are taking the time to be better.  Some businesses and most union halls provide training that goes beyond just field work.  Those companies take the quality of workmanship seriously and make sure that their technicians do too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Understand Your Thermostat and Controls<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Take time to learn your thermostat\u2019s settings and features. Programmable and smart thermostats can help you save energy while keeping your home comfortable, but only if they\u2019re set up properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Did you know gas fired furnaces manufacture in 2019 and beyond have energy efficiency blower motors that save you money on your electric bill when you run the fan all day, every day? Yep!  Running the fan is as simple is turn the \u201cfan on\u201d at your thermostat.  It helps maintain temperatures throughout the home, not just at the thermostat location.  Doing this makes multi level homes more even tempered on each floor.  Then, taking this back to the good filter options, if you\u2019re not moving air, you\u2019re not cleaning it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steps Every Homeowner Should Take with Their Plumbing System<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Your home\u2019s plumbing system is just as important as your heating and cooling equipment. It delivers clean water, removes waste, and protects your home from costly leaks and water damage. Understanding how it works\u2014and what to watch for\u2014can help you avoid headaches and expensive repairs down the road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Find the Main Water Shut-Off Valve<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most important plumbing lesson every homeowner should learn is how to turn the water off. Locate your home\u2019s main shut-off valve\u2014typically near where the main water line enters your home or basement\u2014and make sure everyone in your household knows where it is and how to use it. In an emergency, shutting off the water quickly can save thousands in damage. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you travel a lot, research automatic leak shut-off equipment.\u00a0 It will give you peace of mind, and insurance companies love them.\u00a0 Some might even give you an added discount on your premiums.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Check for Leaks and Drips<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even a small drip can waste gallons of water each month. After moving in, take a few minutes to inspect under sinks, around toilets, and near your water heater for signs of leaks or corrosion. Early detection is key to preventing bigger problems later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Inspect and Label Water Lines<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Identify which pipes serve specific fixtures or appliances. If you have separate shut-offs for bathrooms, laundry rooms, or outdoor spigots, label them clearly. This will make maintenance and future repairs much easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Flush and Inspect the Water Heater<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a lot more important than most people realize.  In 2014, the federal government changed the efficiency requirements of water heaters. In some cases metal, insulation, and other parts needed to change in order to achieve the new requirements. This, in some cases, cause shorter lifespans because of sediment build up on the bottom of the new tanks.  Having small gauge sheet metal cause for less strength in the unit, which then allowed for problems with leaks at the bottom of the tank due to sediment. Sediment buildup in the water heater can reduce efficiency and shorten its lifespan. If you\u2019re not sure when it was last flushed, schedule a professional service or follow the manufacturer\u2019s instructions to perform a simple flush. While you\u2019re at it, check the temperature setting\u2014120\u00b0F is typically ideal for comfort and safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Know the Age and Type of Your Pipes<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Different materials\u2014copper, PVC, PEX, or galvanized steel\u2014have different lifespans and maintenance needs. Knowing what\u2019s behind your walls helps you plan ahead and recognize early warning signs of deterioration or leaks.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

6. Test Water Pressure and Quality<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

High water pressure can strain pipes and fixtures, while low pressure might indicate buildup or hidden leaks. A plumber can test and adjust your system if needed. Consider also testing your water quality, especially if you have well water or live in an area with older plumbing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A lot of plumbing companies will offer free water sampling.  They, of course, use this information to offer solutions like water softeners, iron inhibitors, Reverse Osmosis devices,  etc.  LET THEM!  It\u2019s important to know what you are drinking.  You never have to make a decision to do something immediately, if a contractor says you do\u2026get another contractor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

7. Prevent Clogs the Smart Way<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Avoid pouring grease, oils, or harsh chemicals down drains. Use strainers in sinks and tubs to catch hair and debris. For slow drains, try enzyme-based cleaners or a professional cleaning rather than harsh chemical drain openers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A Comfort Consulting Opinion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Being in this industry for 17 Years has opened my eyes to so many important factors in home performance.\u00a0 To me, teaching these things to people is just as important as the structure of the home itself.\u00a0 I got into this industry by, in my opinion, sheer luck.\u00a0 I was working in wireless sales.\u00a0 I helped set up an HVAC company with its business account.\u00a0 The owner thought the way I went about making sure the setup was done correctly and everyone being educated on the product was good enough for him to see something in me.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He asked if I\u2019d be interested in a career change into HVAC.\u00a0 later that evening I had to ask my father in law what HVAC stood for\u2026That owner took a chance on me and trained me, molded me, and directed me down this ever-changing industry.\u00a0 I still, to this day, believe that teaching someone to understand what they are purchasing is way more important than \u201cwinning the sale\u201d.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Yeah, I need to sell products. That\u2019s how I make my living. But I want to do it right. I want homeowners not to be sold, but rather to want to buy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Contact Crown Group Ohio today with more questions or to make an appointment with Caylen, our Comfort Consultant.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

I\u2019m here to help you make the most of this exciting new chapter\u2014by understanding what\u2019s behind the walls, under the floors, and inside the systems that keep your home running smoothly.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[78],"tags":[230,229],"class_list":["post-1747","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-home-improvement","tag-home-improvement","tag-home-inspection"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1747"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1751,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1747\/revisions\/1751"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1747"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1747"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.crowngroupohio.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1747"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}