Buying a new home has become more complicated in the last year. With limited supply and a lot of demand, buyers have to move fast and may look over some key issues that may not be easily fixed after the home is purchased. One of those things could be the HVAC system. H.J. Faust is here to provide you with a few tips for checking a house’s HVAC system before you put that offer in on a new home.
1. Cost-Benefit Analysis when Buying a Home
When buying your new home, take a look at the age of the A/C and Furnace. Unless you have money that is set aside, the last thing you want to do is have to buy a new whole home comfort system immediately after buying a house. But, if you are getting a really good deal on an older home, it might make sense to take on the cost of replacing the HVAC system. The benefit of replacing the units on older homes is that the newer units are far more efficient and advanced. The up-front investment may be a little hard to swallow, but the savings on your energy bills over time may make you breathe a little easier.
2. Maintenance & Equipment Evaluation
Has the HVAC system in the new home been maintained over time? Did you know that the average HVAC unit averages around 15 years but with proper maintenance, home owners can extend the life to 20+ years? Check with the owners to see if they have any maintenance documentation or ask if you can get the name of the company that does the maintenance on their unit so you can get the paperwork.
Another tip is to add the HVAC system to your list of must checks during your walk through. Look for rust, cracks, dents, water stains and any other type of damage on the HVAC equipment. Keep your ears open for strange noises as you walk around that might indicate some internal problem.
3. Assess Rooms Individually
As you walk through the home, do it slowly and feel comfortable how each room is. Do any rooms feel more stuffy or or drafty? Too hot or too cold? Humid or moist? This may be a problem with the A/C or furnace, the ductwork or the number of supplies and returns. These concerns are serious and could lead to costly fixes later on in order to increase your comfort.
Call H.J. Faust For Your New Home HVAC Needs.
Old HVAC equipment or leaky ducts don’t have to be deal-breakers, but you should be aware of them before you buy so you can make a fully-informed decision. Have a NATE-certified HVAC technician from H.J. Faust check out your heating and cooling system before you buy so you don’t fall prey to outdated equipment and unforeseen costs. Call us today!
