If you're about to put an offer in on your next home, you may be excited at the prospect of finishing the inspection, appraisal, offer process, and finally closing on your new home. However, few things can dampen the new homeowner glow like unexpected problems with your air conditioning unit, and shelling out a few thousand dollars for repair or replacement while you're already juggling closing costs, moving costs, and other expenses can be quite a blow. 

What can you do to identify and correct these problems before purchasing your home? Read on to learn more about some of the most common potential problems that may arise from your new home's air conditioning unit, as well as what you should be looking for during your pre-purchase inspection:

What are some common air conditioning problems that may arise? 

While most home sellers take steps to improve their home's "curb appeal" prior to listing it for sale, this process often focuses on cosmetic improvements and major (or noticeable) issues with appliances, electrical systems, and other issues that are likely to come out during an inspection. Even if the air conditioner has required refills of coolant for the last few summers, as long as it can limp through the present one without major repairs, a home seller may rationalize that these issues don't need to be disclosed. 

Some of the most common issues that can arise with a central air conditioning unit include a leak somewhere in the system (causing the unit to cycle on and off frequently as it tries to achieve the set temperature), a corroded compressor coil, or an electrical issue caused by a frayed or severed cord. While some of these issues can become apparent through the home inspection process, others come on far more gradually, and a home inspector may not be able to diagnose a slow coolant leak without going well beyond the typical home inspection.

How can you minimize your risk of encountering air conditioner issues after purchasing your home?

If you're not sure you want to shell out for an air-conditioner-specific inspection before putting in an offer on your next home, you may still want to schedule one after your closing. A thorough inspection can raise any red flags right away, allowing you to make an informed decision when it comes to scheduling repairs during off-peak times or engaging in preventive maintenance to prevent your air conditioner from giving out during one of the hottest days of the year. 

Contact a company like Home Inspection Associate for more information and assistance.