Why New HVAC Installations Still Need an Inspector’s Review in Atlanta

Introduction: Don’t Assume “Brand New” Means Perfect

Imagine this: you just bought a home in Atlanta or Marietta, and the seller proudly tells you, “The HVAC system was just replaced, so you won’t have to worry about heating or cooling for years!”

Sounds great, right? But as a home inspector serving the Atlanta metro area, I’ve learned that a new HVAC installation isn’t always the guarantee of trouble-free comfort buyers expect.

In fact, I’ve seen brand-new HVAC systems with critical installation flaws—ductwork not sealed, condensate lines improperly pitched, or units sized incorrectly for the home. These mistakes may not show up until the system fails under peak demand in July or January.

That’s why even new installations deserve a careful, independent review during a home inspection. In this blog, we’ll explore:

• Why “new” HVAC systems can hide costly problems

• The most common HVAC installation mistakes in Georgia homes

• Why code compliance doesn’t guarantee quality

• How home inspectors in Atlanta catch issues before they become expensive failures

• Real examples from local inspections

• FAQs about inspecting brand-new HVAC systems

Let’s break down why you should never skip an HVAC review—even when the system looks shiny and new.

The Myth of the “Maintenance-Free” New HVAC System

Many buyers assume that a brand-new HVAC system equals peace of mind. And in some ways, it should—newer equipment is usually more efficient, quieter, and better for air quality.

But here’s the truth: the quality of the installation matters just as much as the quality of the equipment.

In fact, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) estimates that nearly half of all HVAC systems in U.S. homes are installed incorrectly. That means poor airflow, reduced efficiency, and premature failure—no matter how new the unit is.

So while new systems are certainly better than old ones, they are not immune to problems that only a trained inspector will catch.

Common New HVAC Installation Issues in Georgia Homes

Here in the Atlanta metro area, I regularly see the same types of HVAC issues pop up—even on freshly installed systems.

1.

Improper Sizing

• An oversized unit may short-cycle, leading to high humidity indoors (a big problem in Georgia summers).

• An undersized unit will struggle to keep up, especially during 95-degree July heat.

2.

Poor Ductwork Sealing

• Leaky ducts waste energy and reduce system efficiency.

• Duct leaks in attics or crawlspaces can draw in mold spores, dust, and insulation particles.

3.

Condensate Drainage Problems

• Improperly sloped drain lines can cause water leaks.

• Missing or faulty float switches create risks of ceiling damage in Atlanta homes with attic air handlers.

4.

Electrical Issues

• Incorrect breaker sizing or missing disconnects at the outdoor condenser.

• Poor bonding or grounding that poses a fire hazard.

5.

Lack of Permits or Inspections

• Believe it or not, I’ve inspected “new” systems in Cobb and Fulton counties where no permit was ever pulled. That means no municipal inspection occurred at all.

6.

Improper Refrigerant Charge

• Too much or too little refrigerant can drastically shorten system lifespan.

• Without proper gauges, some installers “eyeball” this step.

7.

Airflow Imbalances

• Registers in bedrooms may blow weakly while living rooms get over-conditioned.

• Inadequate returns starve the system for air, forcing it to work harder.

These are not minor oversights—they directly affect comfort, efficiency, and long-term costs.

Why Code Compliance Doesn’t Equal Quality

Some buyers assume that because the system passed the county or city building inspection, everything must be fine. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Municipal inspectors are mainly checking for basic safety and code compliance, not performance optimization. Their focus is:

• Was the correct breaker installed?

• Is the disconnect in place?

• Is the refrigerant line insulated?

What they often don’t check:

• Whether the system is properly sized for the home

• Whether airflow is balanced across all rooms

• Whether ductwork is leaking in the attic

• Whether condensate drains were tested

That’s where a home inspector in Atlanta provides added value—our goal is to make sure the system functions as intended, not just that it passed minimum requirements.

Real-World Examples from Atlanta Home Inspections

Case Study 1: “The Brand-New Leak” in Marietta

During a recent Marietta inspection, the seller proudly pointed out the new HVAC system installed just two months prior. My infrared camera showed moisture around the air handler closet. The issue? A condensate line pitched uphill, causing water to back up and leak into the wall cavity.

Case Study 2: Oversized in Roswell

A Roswell buyer thought they were set with a brand-new 4-ton AC unit. The problem? The home only needed 2.5 tons. The oversized unit short-cycled, leaving indoor humidity at 65%—perfect conditions for mold growth.

Case Study 3: Missing Safety Switch in Atlanta

An attic air handler in an Atlanta bungalow had no float switch installed. In the event of a drain backup, water would have poured directly into the ceiling.

In all these cases, the buyers were glad they didn’t assume “new” meant “done right.”

The Role of Home Inspectors in Reviewing New HVAC Systems

A thorough Atlanta home inspection includes evaluating:

• Age, brand, and serial number verification of the unit

• Airflow measurements and temperature splits

• Condensate drainage testing

• Ductwork inspection for leaks or poor connections

• Electrical connections and breaker sizing

• Verification of permit history when possible

Home inspectors don’t replace licensed HVAC contractors, but we act as an independent set of eyes. When something looks off, we recommend further evaluation by a licensed HVAC professional before closing.

Why This Matters for Buyers, Sellers, and Realtors

Buyers

• Protect your investment and avoid hidden costs.

• Ensure comfort and efficiency in your new home.

Sellers

• Get ahead of issues that could derail your sale.

• Show good faith by having your system reviewed before listing.

Realtors

• Avoid surprises during due diligence.

• Protect your clients by recommending inspections—even for “new” systems.

FAQs About Inspecting New HVAC Systems in Atlanta

Q1: If the HVAC is brand new, why do I still need an inspection?

Because installation errors are common and can cause early failure or safety risks.

Q2: Won’t the manufacturer warranty cover problems?

Not always. Many warranties exclude damage caused by improper installation.

Q3: Does a county permit inspection cover everything?

No. Municipal inspectors focus on safety code, not system performance.

Q4: What’s the most common issue you find with new HVAC in Georgia homes?

Improper sizing and condensate drainage problems top the list.

Q5: How long should a new HVAC system last?

With proper installation and maintenance, 12–15 years for AC units and up to 20 years for furnaces or heat pumps. But improper installs can cut that lifespan in half.

Conclusion: Don’t Skip the Inspector Just Because It’s New

When you hear the words “brand-new HVAC system,” don’t let your guard down. The truth is, the installation quality determines whether that investment pays off—or becomes a headache.

As an Atlanta home inspector, I’ve seen too many new systems with costly mistakes that could have been avoided if caught early. That’s why a home inspection is essential—whether the HVAC system is 20 years old or 2 months old.

👉 Ready to make sure your next home purchase doesn’t hide HVAC surprises? Schedule your inspection today with Reynolds Home and Property Solutions — your trusted Atlanta and Marietta home inspector.