What Homeowners Should Know About the HVAC System Before Buying

Let’s say you’ve found a house you really like. You love the location, the layout, and just about everything else about it—but you have no idea what kind of condition the heating and cooling equipment is in.

So, what should you be looking for? More importantly, what questions should you be asking?

A home inspection is an important part of the buying process, but a typical home inspection is not the same thing as having the HVAC system evaluated by a qualified HVAC professional. Your home inspector will generally identify the age of the equipment, operate the system, and check to see whether it appears to be heating or cooling properly. However, they may not perform the same in-depth testing that an experienced HVAC technician can provide.

With the cost of repairing or replacing heating and cooling equipment continuing to rise, it can make good sense to have the HVAC system inspected by a professional HVAC company before you buy. A more detailed inspection may uncover expensive repairs, safety concerns, or equipment that is nearing the end of its useful life.

Start With Safety

One of the first things to determine is whether the home has equipment that burns fossil fuel.

This could include:

• Natural gas
• Propane
• Fuel oil

These types of equipment can potentially produce carbon monoxide (CO) if there is a problem with combustion or venting. An electric furnace does not produce carbon monoxide because it does not burn fuel.

When purchasing a home with fuel-burning equipment, consider having the furnace or boiler professionally checked for safe operation. The same goes for other fuel-burning appliances, such as gas water heaters and gas fireplaces or gas logs.

Carbon monoxide is colorless and odorless, which is why CO detectors are such an inexpensive form of protection for your family.

Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors

I recommend having carbon monoxide detectors on every level of the home and near sleeping areas, following the manufacturer’s placement instructions.

Avoid placing detectors in locations where steam, cooking fumes, or other airborne contaminants could cause nuisance alarms or potentially affect the sensor. For example, avoid placing them directly next to bathrooms or cooking appliances.

If you’re a sound sleeper, having a properly placed CO detector near your bedroom can provide additional peace of mind. Carbon monoxide incidents can occur at any time, including overnight when the house is closed up and everyone is sleeping.

And remember—the furnace isn’t the only possible source. A malfunctioning gas water heater, fireplace, or other fuel-burning appliance can also create a carbon monoxide hazard.

Don’t Forget About Energy Costs

The heating and cooling system will likely be one of the largest users of energy in your new home.

Before buying, ask the seller if they can provide information about the home’s past utility usage. You may be able to review previous electric and gas bills to get a better idea of what it costs to heat and cool the home throughout the year.

This can help you avoid an unpleasant surprise when your first utility bill arrives after a stretch of freezing winter weather or blistering summer heat.

A Little Investigation Can Save You a Lot of Money

Buying a home is a major investment, and the HVAC system is an important part of that investment. Knowing the age of the equipment is helpful, but understanding its overall condition, safety, and potential repair needs can be even more valuable.

Before you buy, consider having the heating and cooling equipment evaluated by a qualified HVAC professional. Spending a little money on an inspection could potentially help you avoid a major expense—or, more importantly, identify a safety issue—after you move in.

Thanks for checking out this blog post. Be sure to check back for more friendly advice on buying, selling, and maintaining your home!