Are you looking to buy a house? If so, congratulations! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or experienced in the process, purchasing a home is always thrilling. However, you’ll want to remember to inspect the HVAC system of a potential home whilst you’re touring the rest of the house too. We know that this information may seem overwhelming, especially if this is your first time purchasing a house. How will you know what to look for? What are good and bad signs to be mindful of? First off, we want to assure you that we are here to help; it can be challenging to identify red flags related to HVAC systems if you are not experienced in this area. Fortunately, our team at Loveland Heating & Air has identified and listed below five red flags that anyone can watch for when checking out a potential house.
RED FLAG NUMBER 1: OLDER HVAC SYSTEMS
If you’re thinking of purchasing an older home, it’s important to be mindful if the house is still equipped with its original HVAC system. Older systems are usually less energy-efficient and more prone to malfunctioning. Similar to how a car deteriorates over time, HVAC systems do too. Plus, even if it’s not the original system, it’s essential to be aware of the age and condition of the HVAC system, as it’s a significant factor to consider. 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. A brief once-over should at least provide a general idea of the system’s age and condition.
For instance, if you see a lot of dust or corrosion on the HVAC, this is a good indication that it hasn’t been maintained properly over the years, or it could indicate it’s an older unit. Remember, an older system is not necessarily a bad thing, but bear in mind that a well-maintained system can last for 15-20 years. So, if you are dealing with an older system, it’s helpful to know ahead of time as you may need to replace the heating or cooling unit in the near future. Knowing this can also help you negotiate the price of the house if you decide to buy it.
RED FLAG NUMBER 2: INCONSISTENT TEMPERATURES OR REGULATION
To check for poor air regulation in a house, observe the temperature of each room during your tour. Inconsistent temperatures between rooms can be a sign of this issue. If you notice that one room feels stuffy or drafty in comparison to the rest of the house, it could be a concern. Keep in mind that there may be multiple reasons for this problem, and although it’s not a deal breaker, it may be something you’ll need to be assessed by a professional.
RED FLAG NUMBER 3: MUSTY ODORS
Another thing you should pay attention to is if there are any unpleasant or musty smells coming from the HVAC vents or registers, as they could indicate an issue with the ductwork or another system-related problem. Therefore, it’s important to keep an alert nose for potential issues just as much as it’s important to use your eyes to evaluate the system and the rest of the house.
RED FLAG NUMBER 4: ODD NOISES
It is also important to listen attentively for any abnormal sounds from the HVAC system as they can signify equipment issues such as loose parts or worn-out components. These sounds might include (but are not limited to) loud rattling, banging, or buzzing-like noises.
RED FLAG 5: NO HVAC RECORDS
After the house tour, if you are still interested in buying the house, it is advisable to inquire about the HVAC system’s history, which should include its maintenance and repair records. The absence of records could mean that the system has not been well-maintained, making it difficult to predict any possible issues – a serious concern in our opinion. Moreover, excessive repairs on a particular unit should also be considered another red flag.
HVAC INSPECTIONS – WHAT ARE THEY FOR?
Please keep in mind that the red flags discussed above should not necessarily prevent you from pursuing your dream home. However, it’s important to carefully think through or discuss these factors to make a more informed decision that best benefits you. It is advisable to consult with a licensed HVAC expert to get their professional opinion about the condition of the system and any potential issues.
Luckily, we have an HVAC inspection service where one of our NATE-certified technicians will come out to the home, assess the system and provide a detailed report on its condition and recommend 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.)
Remember, it’s important to know the condition of the HVAC system in a potential new home before you move your family in. Although it may seem like an added stress, buying a house is a big commitment, so it’s best to be well-prepared and avoid any unwelcome surprises.
If you need help with any HVAC services, Loveland Heating & Air is here for you! We believe in providing top-notch customer service and would be delighted to assist you with all your needs and concerns. You can reach us at (513) 216-5913 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here.
