Being in the market for a home is undoubtedly one of the most exciting yet nerve-wracking times for everyone. Trying to get good deals, knowing what to get inspected before you buy, finding the perfect home for your family, and moving can be complex but owning your own space, and being able to have something for yourself energizes us.

 

We spend a lot of time defining the right home for ourselves, how many bedrooms, how many bathrooms, and the perfect outdoor space. We run through every detail. Is the kitchen the right fit? Is there room for everything we require?

 

Yet there’s an aspect of home buying that often goes overlooked that can make a big difference. The unseen hero in every home: the HVAC system. We take it for granted when it's working and rightly panic when it’s not. A well-functioning HVAC system is essential for comfort and energy efficiency, of course, but also has a big impact on the long-term value of your property.

 

This informative blog post is dedicated to helping potential and current homeowners understand what to look for in an HVAC system before sealing the deal.

Importance of a Reliable HVAC System

 

Understanding the intricacies of an HVAC system is crucial when purchasing your home. Diving deeper than the surface level of heating and cooling; your system ensures a comfortable living environment year-round. A faulty or inefficient system can lead to costly repairs and high energy bills, things every homeowner wants to avoid.

 

A healthy HVAC system ensures that you don’t have another problem popping up while on the hunt for a new home. This is a commodity that any homeowner, new or transitioning, can appreciate.

HVAC Inspection Checklist for Home Buyers

When you’ve picked out a few homes to tour and are at the “open house” stage, make sure that the HVAC system details are thorough. If you’re wondering what to look for and where to find details, we’ve got you covered!

 

Here’s a handy checklist to guide you through evaluating the HVAC system of your potential new home:

 

• Visual Inspection:

Look at the condition of the HVAC unit. Check for any signs of damage, corrosion, or unusual noise. This is a surface-level check. You’re not looking for anything specific. Just take a look at the machine and check for cracks, corrosion, etc.

• System Age:

Ask for the age of the HVAC system. Systems older than 10-15 years may need replacing soon. Some listings might include this information online, but if not, your realtor should have the details.

• Energy Efficiency:

Check for energy efficiency ratings. Look for the SEER rating for air conditioners and the AFUE rating for boilers and furnaces. These might seem like complicated terms but they’re just a fancy way of measuring efficiency. Newer models will have a yellow sign that will outright say the SEER rating. For older models, you might have to look closer.

• Maintenance History:

Inquire about the maintenance history. Consistent repairs, especially for major components, might indicate imminent major expenses. Your realtor and the previous homeowners should know this information. Make sure you get direct answers. Any beating around the bush or stalling can be indicative of something being wrong.

• Warranty Information:

Is there an existing warranty on the HVAC system? Find out if it’s transferable to new homeowners. Warranties can differ from each model but finding this out can help you if the system suffers any problems down the line.

The Role of Professional HVAC Inspection

A general inspection is a good start, but there is a limit to it. When you inspect by yourself, you can often miss deep HVAC specifics. Hiring an HVAC professional can help you learn more about the system. They can provide a detailed report on the system's condition, potential lifespan, and any foreseeable issues.

 

This step is particularly crucial for older systems. If the house you’re eyeing has an older system, it might be the right time to hire a professional to let you know if you’ll have problems with it.

 

Understanding the Impact of HVAC on Home Value

 

Did you know that the current national average home appreciation rate is 2% month over month and 14.5% year over year?

 

An efficient, well-maintained HVAC system can significantly enhance the value of a home. It's a sign that the house has been cared for and looked after well.

 

Plus, newer, energy-efficient systems are attractive features that promise lower utility costs. So when you’re in the home buying process, make sure that the HVAC system has been cared for and to also take care of it.

 

Post-Purchase HVAC Considerations

Once you’re confident with the HVAC system and you’ve purchased your home, think about regular HVAC maintenance to keep the system running smoothly. This is also the time to consider upgrades, such as smart thermostats, that can improve efficiency and comfort.

 

While these upgrades can seem daunting, preparing yourself for the future and taking the necessary steps to set your home and yourself up for success can result in a more comfortable environment.

 

Buy Your Home with Confidence

As a prospective homeowner, taking the time to thoroughly inspect the HVAC system can save you from unexpected expenses and ensure that your new home remains comfortable throughout every season. The value of a home is not just in its appearance but also in its functionality and efficiency.

 

If you take the steps that we’ve listed in this blog, you can ensure that the home you buy is functional and won’t surprise you with any bills or HVAC issues.


Before making your final decision on a new home, consider a professional HVAC inspection. Contact One Hour Heating and Air in Chattanooga Tennessee for an expert assessment. Ensure that your dream home comes with the comfort and efficiency you deserve!