If you’re looking to purchase a new home, congratulations! This is an exciting step toward the next chapter in your life. We appreciate you considering Bexley Heating & Cooling for your HVAC needs. We understand that buying a new home can be overwhelming, with many factors to consider. However, it’s important to remember that a home’s HVAC system is a crucial component of your house. We know that choosing the next place to call “home sweet home” is a significant decision, and we want to assist you in making the home-searching journey more manageable. It can be challenging to identify potential issues with an HVAC system during a home search, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process. Therefore, here are five red flags to look out for in an HVAC system when seeking a new home.
Red Flag #1: An Older Unit
Most units should have the manufacturing date written on the label on the side of the unit. But if you have a hard time locating it (as it can be tricky) during your walk-through, you can visually inspect the HVAC units and look for signs of proper maintenance, such as the cleanliness of the furnace and AC unit. For example, dust buildup and corrosion can be indications that the units may not have been well taken care of or is perhaps older. While age shouldn’t be a deal breaker, it is still important to be cautious about older units when looking for potential issues. Please note that the age of a unit cannot be accurately determined just by visual inspection, but it can help give you an idea. An HVAC system typically lasts for 15 to 20 years, depending on how well it has been maintained. This will give you an idea of when you might need to replace the system in the future. Remember, ultimately, a house with an older HVAC system shouldn’t keep you from going for your dream home, but it can be a great negotiating point with the seller.
Red Flag #2: Moldy Ductwork or Vents
When walking through the house, be on the lookout for moldy or dusty ducts and vent registers. You’ll want to look inside registers and on top of them for excessive dust buildup or signs of mold. On top of that, check any exposed ductwork (usually found in the basement) for any gaps or holes. Checking for wear and tear in the ductwork is important, as any gaps or tears can result in air leakage. This information can help during negotiations, so it’s worth knowing beforehand.
Red Flag #3: A Loud System
During the house tour, please pay attention to any loud or unruly noises coming from the HVAC system. While you’re visually inspecting each room to determine if it’s suitable for your family’s needs, try to remember to “keep an ear” out for any unusual noises, such as loud clanging, banging, or whirring.
Red Flag #4: Drafty or Stuffy Rooms
When you’re moving around the house, take your time and pay attention to how the air feels in each room. Is it warm or stuffy? Or is it cold and drafty? Is there a big difference in one room’s temperature compared to the room you were just in? This could mean that the temperature in the house isn’t consistent and needs better regulation.
Red Flag #5: Inconsistent Maintenance History or Excessive Repairs Performed
If you are interested in the home, it is recommended that you obtain a copy of the HVAC maintenance history so that you can assess the system’s maintenance level. If there is no maintenance history, it could be a sign of concern since annual tune-ups and checkups are crucial for the HVAC system’s longevity. Additionally, it is recommended that you ask about the warranty policy. So, don’t be afraid to ask for this info if you are considering moving forward with the process.
WHY GET AN HVAC INSPECTION?
Buying a new home without being familiar with its HVAC system can be overwhelming, but we can provide assistance! We offer an HVAC inspection service where one of our NATE-certified technicians will thoroughly assess and inspect the home, provide a detailed report of the system, and include any recommended repairs or upgrades. (This usually can be negotiated into the terms and arranged by the homeowner if you decide to move forward with the house.)
Please remember that although it may seem like an extra task during an already stressful time, maintaining your HVAC system is crucial. It is second only to having a roof over your family’s head. A functioning heating and cooling system are a basic necessity for keeping your family comfortable all year round. Therefore, it’s imperative that you know the condition of the HVAC system of a home you are trying to purchase.
We hope you found this information helpful in your search for a new home. If you have any questions or if you need a trustworthy HVAC company, please consider giving Bexley Heating & Cooling a chance to provide you with excellent customer service. We would be excited to serve you! You can contact us at (614) 924-7856 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!