When in the market for a home, there are lots of boxes to check off. Among the most important things worth factoring in is the quality of the home’s HVAC unit. In this short blog post, we take you through important tips on what to look for when evaluating the furnace, residential HVAC and more while you’re house-hunting.
Perform a Cost-Benefit Analysis
Unless you have money precisely set aside for it, the last thing you want to do is have to buy new heating and colling equipment after making a down payment on the house itself. Furnaces and residential HVAC units cost hundreds of dollars each, so this is no incidental cost.
On the other hand, if you’re getting a great deal on an older home, it is in your best interest to take on the cost of replacing the residential HVAC unit. You can find Energy Star-compliant furnaces, boilers and residential HVAC units that are far more efficient and advanced than their predecessors.
Never Forget Ducts and Insulation
While the furnace and the residential HVAC are the big-ticket items, in a forced-air system the ductwork is just as vital. The ducts carry the hot and cold air through the house, so it is essential that they be free of leaks. Try as much as possible to find condensation, loose connections and gaps on any visible ductwork.
Another vital factor in your residential HVAC efficiency is insulation. Be sure to ask homeowners what type of insulation the home has, and take a look in the attic yourself if it is accessible. When touring the house, take note of any drafts or rooms that feel hotter or cooler than the rest of the home.
Evaluate the Equipment
When evaluating the equipment, you need to look for rusts, cracks, dents, water stains or any other type of damage on the residential HVAC equipment. Also, keep your ears open for any strange noises that might indicate some type of internal problem. Ensure you get a copy of maintenance records from the owners if they kept any.
