When it comes time to buy a new home, there are plenty of questions you’re bound to have. From the age of the home to which school district it’s in, there are many things buyers know to look out for when shopping around. However, paying attention to the HVAC unit when considering a home is one thing that is often overlooked.
Most homebuyers are not experts in HVAC systems and aren’t quite sure of the right questions to ask. As such, we’ve designed a comprehensive guide of things to pay attention to. We’re experts in all things heating and cooling – and we’re here to help!
Things to Look for in an HVAC System
On a house tour, one easy thing to pay attention to is the home’s duct system. A duct system impacts how well air blows around your home which could make or break its enjoyment. Circular ducts are often a top choice for efficiency and quiet operation, preferred over rectangular ducts. If ducts need to be cleaned, John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling can help!
A house inspection should always review the status of the HVAC system and involve an inspection of the duct. In this, you should be able to identify any potential problems or leaks within the duct system.
Age and Efficiency
If a seller disclosure is provided, be sure to carefully read through the portion about the HVAC system to see when it was installed and if there are any known issues with the unit. Newer HVAC systems installed within the last five to ten years are more likely to have better energy efficiency ratings, which can help keep your monthly energy bill down. Air conditioner, heat pump, and furnace energy efficiencies each are rated on their own scales.
If the home is a decent size square footage, a non-energy efficient HVAC unit could result in some expensive monthly energy bills. Don’t be afraid to ask the seller of the home to provide copies of monthly bills to help you better estimate your expenses.
We Can Help
Understanding the details of HVAC operation and maintenance doesn’t need to come naturally to you as a homeowner. As your trusted HVAC partner, John A. Kinkaid Heating and Cooling is here to help. To learn more about our services, contact us today!