If you’re in the market to purchase a new home, it’s important to consider the HVAC system in the home-searching process. If you’re not a trained HVAC technician, it may be difficult to identify certain issues. However, we know buying a new home can be overwhelming, so as your local Hilliard-Dublin Heating & Air experts, we have pieced together five warning signs (or red flags, as you might say) that anyone can look out for when touring a potential home.
RED FLAG 1: IS AN OLDER OR ORIGINAL HVAC SYSTEM AN ISSUE?
If you’re considering buying an older home, it’s important to be aware if the HVAC system is still the original one. Older systems are often less energy-efficient and more likely to experience issues, which means the system may need to be replaced in the near future. Even if the system isn’t the original one, it’s crucial to check its age and condition. Now, most HVAC units will have the manufacturing date written on a label on the side of the unit. But if you have a hard time locating it, try to visually examine the HVAC units for signs of proper maintenance, age, etc., instead. By visually inspecting the unit, you can get a general idea of its age and how well it has been maintained.
For instance, if you see a lot of dust buildup or heavy corrosion on the HVAC unit, it may mean that the system has not been well-maintained over the years. Remember that a house with an older HVAC system is not necessarily a bad thing, but keep in mind that HVAC units typically last between 15-20 years. So, knowing the age of the current unit could be a good point to negotiate if you decide to buy the house.
RED FLAG 2: IS INCONSISTENT AIR REGULATION AN ISSUE?
Inconsistent air regulation throughout the home can cause significant temperature variations from room to room. When assessing each space to decide whether the house is suitable for your family’s needs, it’s also important to pay attention to the air regulation in each room. Is it stuffy compared to the other room? Or is there a draft? Inconsistent air regulation can occur due to various reasons, so it’s crucial to look out for it beforehand.
RED FLAG 3: ARE UNPLEASANT ODORS AN ISSUE?
Next, you’ll want to keep your nose on the alert for unpleasant odors as well. Musty, uninviting odors coming from the HVAC system or vents could be a sign that there is something within the system needing to be addressed.
RED FLAG 4: ARE LOUD, UNUSUAL NOISES AN ISSUE?
Keep your ears peeled for any unusual sounds being emitted from the HVAC system. Loud sounds like banging, clanging, buzzing, or rattling noises may indicate problems with loose parts or worn-out components, etc.
RED FLAG 5: IS A LACK OF HVAC RECORDS AN ISSUE?
Finally, if you feel you have found the home for your family and are still interested in purchasing the home after your tour, be sure to ask for the HVAC system’s maintenance and repair history. If there are no records, it may indicate that the system was not well-maintained, and it can be challenging to identify potential issues. This lack of information could be another concern to keep in mind. Additionally, excessive repairs to a specific unit can also be seen as a red flag.
HOW DOES AN HVAC INSPECTION HELP?
It is important to keep in mind that the presence of red flags does not necessarily mean you should walk away from the deal. Rather, they should prompt you to be more cautious and discuss the issues with the seller so you can arrive at a mutually beneficial solution. Being blind-sided by a faulty HVAC system can be discouraging after making such a big commitment. Furthermore, consulting with a licensed HVAC professional is always a good idea, as they can provide an expert assessment of the system’s condition and advise you on any potential issues.
Fortunately, we offer an HVAC inspection, which involves sending one of our NATE-certified technicians to the house to examine the HVAC system. The inspection will cover all the details and will provide a complete report on the condition of the system, along with any recommended repairs or suggested upgrades. (This usually can be negotiated into the terms and arranged by the homeowner if you decide to move forward with the house.)
Now, we know it may seem like an additional and unnecessary step, but it’s important to keep in mind that a functioning HVAC system is secondary to providing shelter for your family. Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of the HVAC system’s condition in the house you’re considering moving into in order to make the necessary preparations.
If you have any doubts or queries or require trustworthy local HVAC services, please allow us to demonstrate our five-star customer experience! We would be thrilled to assist you! You can reach Hilliard-Dublin Heating & Air at (614) 490-7520 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
