If you’re in the market to buy a house, congratulations! Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or not, it’s definitely a milestone to celebrate. Though searching for a home can be exciting, it can also be overwhelming as there are many details to consider and must-haves on your list to ensure that the house meets all your family’s needs. However, your favorite heating and cooling professionals want to remind you not to overlook the HVAC system in the process of visiting potential houses you’re interested in.
Since the HVAC system is responsible for keeping you and your family comfortable and safe all year round, it’s important to know its condition beforehand. Now, unless you’re an HVAC professional, it can be challenging to identify red flags in an HVAC system. Fortunately, Monroe Heating & Air‘s team has put together a list of five red flags that anybody searching for a house can easily keep an eye out for during a walkthrough.
RED FLAG ONE: THE AGE OF THE HVAC SYSTEM
If you’re thinking of buying an older house, it’s crucial to be aware of whether it still has its original HVAC system. Generally, older systems are less energy-efficient and more prone to encountering problems. Similar to a car wearing out with time, HVAC systems can also degrade as time passes. Additionally, even if it’s not the original system, you still want to be mindful of older systems. Therefore, it’s necessary to assess the age and physical state of the HVAC system when possible. How does one do this? 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 during your home tour should at least provide you with a generalized idea of the system’s age and condition. Easy peasy!
We say this because if you spot an absurd amount of dust or corrosion on the HVAC unit, it’s a good indicator that it hasn’t been maintained well. Remember that an older HVAC system isn’t necessarily bad, but since well-maintained ones typically last 15-20 years, should you move forward with this house, you may have to replace the heating or cooling unit (or both) in the near future. Being aware of this before buying the house could give you an advantage when negotiating back and forth.
RED FLAG TWO: DRAFTS OR UNREGULATED AIR
As you tour the home, take your time when entering and observing each room. Of course, you will be looking for things like the size of the room, checking the windows, opening closets, etc. But don’t forget to stop and “feel the breeze.” That is to say, really, you just want to observe the temperature. You may just be surprised to find that one room in the house is a lot stuffier or maybe even draftier compared to the rest. There may be multiple reasons for this, but inconsistent air regulation is yet another thing you will want to be aware of. If you move into this house, it’s going to get old real quick, and it’s likely an issue that will need to be looked at down the road.
RED FLAG THREE: UNPLEASANT OR MUSTY ODORS
In terms of odors, it is important to also take notice of any unpleasant or musty smells as they can indicate a problem with the ductwork or other system-related issues. For this reason, it is equally important to not write off any odd smells you might notice. A duct cleaning may be in the cards for this HVAC system – another thing you could potentially work into negotiations.
RED FLAG FOUR: STRANGE SOUNDS
Next, you want to be on the lookout for any unusual sounds that may come from the HVAC system, as they could be a sign of equipment problems, such as loose parts or worn-out components. Some examples of these odd sounds are loud rattling, banging, or buzzing noises, so “keep an ear out” for this red flag too.
RED FLAG FIVE: NO HVAC MAINTENANCE
After the tour, if you are still interested in buying the house, it’s recommended that you ask for the HVAC system’s records. This information should cover its maintenance and any repairs done in the past. Not having any records available may suggest that the system has not been maintained well. Furthermore, be cautious if a specific unit has undergone excessive repairs, as this is yet another red flag, in our opinion.
WHY SHOULD YOU REQUEST AN HVAC INSPECTION?
Please keep in mind that the red flags listed above should by no means automatically prevent you from pursuing your dream home. They are not deal breakers. Rather, think of them as something to look out for so you can carefully consider your options, negotiate, and plan accordingly. It is highly advised that you consult with a licensed HVAC expert for their professional evaluation of the system’s condition and any potential problems.
Fortunately, we have an HVAC inspection service available, where a NATE-certified technician will go out to the house, inspect the HVAC system and provide you with a detailed report on its condition. If there are any required repairs or upgrades, they will be suggested as well. (This usually can be negotiated into the terms and arranged by the homeowner if you decide to move forward with the house.) Even though it may seem like an additional unnecessary step, it is crucial to know the condition of the HVAC system in a potential new home before moving in. Buying a house is a huge commitment, and being well-prepared is essential to avoid unexpected surprises and headaches later.
If you need assistance with HVAC services and are searching for a reputable local company, you have found it with Monroe Heating & Air! Whatever your HVAC need is, we look forward to helping you! You can reach us at (513) 540-4890 or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
