Have you been looking for a house to call your next “home sweet home?” If so, congratulations! That’s always an exciting chapter to step into! And the fact of the matter is that whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or not, it’s a significant milestone to celebrate!
With so many details to consider and must-haves on your list to ensure that a potential house meets all your family’s needs, we are here to remind you that it’s important not to forget to check out the HVAC system in the process. After all, a functional HVAC system is essential to keep you and your family cozy and comfortable year-long. Because an HVAC system’s issues can be difficult to identify for a non-trained eye, your faithful Springboro Heating & Cooling has compiled a list of five red flags that ANYONE can easily spot during a house tour.
RED FLAG NUMBER 1: DO YOU KNOW THE AGE OF THE HVAC SYSTEM?
If you are looking at an older house as a potential new home, it is important to find out if it still has its original HVAC system or even just an older one in it. Typically, older systems are less energy-efficient and are more prone to experiencing issues. Think of it as similar to a car losing efficiency over time. Now, most house listings will have a brief description of the HVAC system’s status, but in case it doesn’t, you should aim to sneak in a quick once-over during your walk-through.
For example, just a quick inspection of an HVAC unit should give you a very general idea of the unit’s age and condition. Excessive piles of dust or corrosion on the HVAC unit could suggest that the unit is older and may not have been maintained consistently. Keep in mind that an older HVAC system is not automatically a bad thing, but it is certainly something of which you want to be mindful. This is because well-maintained systems typically have a lifespan of 15-20 years, so if you choose to purchase this property, you may need to replace the heating or cooling unit (or both) in the foreseeable future. This could be beneficial to know ahead of time for negotiating reasons.
RED FLAG NUMBER 2: DOES THE AIR FEEL DRAFTY OR STUFFY IN A PARTICULAR SPACE?
When you’re touring the home, make sure to take your time entering and carefully looking at each room. Of course, you will be doing things like taking note of the room’s size, checking the windows, and opening closets. Additionally, you will also want to pay attention to the temperature in each space to see if it remains consistent. You may be surprised to notice that one room in the house feels either stuffier or draftier than the others. This could be due to various reasons, but inconsistent air regulation is another flag you want to be cautious of, as it may require attention in the future.
RED FLAG NUMBER 3: IS THERE A NOTICEABLY UNPLEASANT OR MUSTY SMELL?
Next, it is also good to pay attention to any unpleasant or musty odors that may be coming from the HVAC system, as they may point to issues with the HVAC system’s ductwork or other components. Therefore, it’s good not to ignore any unusual smells you notice. Just keep in mind that a duct cleaning or professional assessment may be required in the near future.
RED FLAG NUMBER 4: ARE THERE STRANGE OR LOUD SOUNDS COMING FROM THE SYSTEM?
You should also watch out for (or rather listen for) any abnormal noises coming from the HVAC system. These sounds, such as loud rattling, banging, or buzzing, could indicate problems with the equipment, such as loose parts or worn-out components, etc. So, please make sure to pay attention to these red flags too.
RED FLAG NUMBER 5: DOES THE SYSTEM HAVE HVAC MAINTENANCE RECORDS AVAILABLE?
If you think you have found “the one”, congrats! It’s advisable to inquire about the HVAC system’s maintenance and repair records. These records should provide details on any maintenance tasks performed and repairs done in the past. The absence of such records may indicate poor maintenance of the system. Additionally, be cautious if a particular unit has gone through numerous repairs, as this could be yet another warning sign.
WHY SHOULD YOU REQUEST AN HVAC INSPECTION?
It is important to note that the red flags mentioned here do not necessarily mean that you should not pursue your dream home. Instead, view them as factors to be aware of and take into account when making decisions, negotiating, and planning. Furthermore, we recommend seeking advice from a licensed HVAC expert to evaluate the system’s condition and identify any issues.
As a solution, we offer an HVAC inspection service that sends a NATE-certified technician to the house to assess the HVAC system’s condition and provide a detailed report listing any necessary 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.) Although it might seem unnecessary, having the HVAC system checked before moving into a new home is crucial. Buying a house is a big commitment, so we believe that being well-prepared is essential to avoid any unexpected surprises down the road.
If you’re looking for a reliable local company to help with your HVAC services, you’ve found it with Springboro Heating & Cooling! We’re ready to assist you with any HVAC needs you may have. You can reach us at (937) 600-6834 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
