Are you in the process of looking for a place to call “home sweet home?” Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer or not, it’s a significant milestone worth celebrating. However, searching for a home can be overwhelming due to the numerous details and must-haves you need to consider to ensure that a potential house will meet your family’s needs. Today, we are here to remind you not to forget to include the HVAC system in the prospective houses you’re interested in.
However, unless you’re an HVAC expert, it can be difficult to detect potential problems. Thankfully, Milford Heating & Cooling has created a list of five red flags that can be spotted during a house tour that ANYONE searching for a new home can look for.
1st RED FLAG: AN OLDER HVAC SYSTEM
First of all, if you’re considering purchasing an older home, it’s important to know if it still has its original HVAC system. Typically, older systems are less efficient and more likely to experience system issues. Comparable to vehicles, HVAC systems can deteriorate over time. And even if it’s not the original system in the house, it’s still wise to be cautious of older systems. 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 quick inspection of the HVAC units should at least give you a general idea of the system’s age and condition.
For instance, if you notice a large amount of dust or corrosion on the HVAC unit, it could indicate poor maintenance or an older unit. Keep in mind that an aged HVAC system isn’t necessarily bad, but well-maintained systems typically last 15-20 years. So, if you feel a home with an older HVAC system is the one for you, you may need to replace the heating or cooling unit (or both) soon. Knowing this beforehand could be helpful for negotiating reasons.
2nd RED FLAG: STUFFY OR DRAFTY PATCHES IN THE HOUSE
Next, take your time as you tour the home and observe each room carefully. Apart from checking the size of the room, windows, and closets, you’ll also need to pay attention to the temperature of each room. You might be surprised to find that one room is either stuffier or draftier than the rest. Now this isn’t a huge concern, but inconsistent air regulation could be the cause, so it’s just something of which you will want to be aware.
3rd RED FLAG: UNPLEASANT ODORS COMING FROM THE VENTS
Another thing that is important to pay attention to is strange or musty smells, as they may indicate a problem with the ductwork or other parts of the system. There could be a variety of reasons as to why this issue may be surfacing, so just keep in mind that a duct cleaning or perhaps a diagnostic appointment may be required to figure out what’s causing it and to rectify the unpleasant odor.
4th RED FLAG: STRANGE SOUNDS FROM THE HVAC SYSTEM
Be attentive to any uncommon noises coming out of the HVAC system, as they may indicate issues with the equipment, such as loose parts or worn-out components. Odd noises such as loud rattling, banging, or buzzing are just some of these sounds. Therefore, be aware and listen to these warning signs. They are a good indication that the HVAC system is verbally putting up a protest, ultimately saying, “Hey, I got something going on and it needs to be checked out.”
5th RED FLAG: THERE IS NO HVAC MAINTENANCE DOCUMENTATION
If you’re considering buying the house after the tour, that’s amazing! Congrats on finding “the one.” The next step we suggest is to inquire about the maintenance and repair history of the HVAC system. This HVAC documentation should provide you with helpful information. If there are no records available, this is a red flag. Heating and cooling units should be serviced at least once a year for maintenance reasons. Additionally, if a particular unit has undergone frequent repairs, this could be considered another warning sign.
OUR RECOMMENDATION: REQUEST AN HVAC INSPECTION
When looking for your dream home, don’t let these red flags automatically discourage you. These are in no way automatic “deal breakers.” Instead, think of them as warning signs to pay attention to; they will help you carefully examine your options, negotiate, and plan accordingly. Furthermore, it’s best to seek advice from a licensed HVAC expert to evaluate the system’s condition and identify any possible issues.
Luckily, we offer an HVAC inspection service where one of our NATE-certified technicians will visit the house, examine the HVAC system, and give a thorough report on its condition. If any repairs or upgrades are needed, they will be recommended. (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 extra step, it’s important to check the condition of the HVAC system in a potential new home before moving in. This is because buying a house is a big commitment, and being well-prepared is important to prevent any unexpected surprises later on.
Milford Heating & Cooling is ready to provide you with excellent customer service for any HVAC need you have. Contact us for assistance at (513) 655-5112, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
