New Home Checklist Before You Seal the Deal
Buying a home is a momentous milestone. A new home can also be just as exciting as it is overwhelming. Finding your dream home is challenging enough, but then what should you look for?
The obvious things you think to inspect are the condition of the roof, the foundation, etc. Being immersed in all these checklist items may lead you to overlook the most important parts of purchasing your new home.
Typically, the HVAC system does not make the new home checklist. The HVAC system is an extremely important aspect of running your home efficiently. For example, how will you stay warm during the first winter in your home when the furnace goes? How will the air conditioning unit hold up as the heat of summer arrives?
A dilapidated HVAC can cost you thousands of extra dollars for repairs or replacement costs. A licensed home inspection should be part of your new home buying process.
Check the HVAC System
If you are not sure about the condition of your HVAC system, then hire a technician from Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning to ensure the functionality and efficiency of the systems are intact, and determine if there are necessary tune-ups. You would also be advised to seek an estimate of the age of your furnace and air conditioner so you know how many years your system has left.
What Type of HVAC System Does Your New Home Have?
This is the most important question to investigate. While newer homes typically have an updated HVAC system, such as a scrolling compressor or a condensing furnace, older homes might still be using boilers or heat pumps. A combination of different systems might be suitable for your new home, but knowing the basic answer to this question will guide your HVAC detective work in the right direction.
Are There Obvious Signs of a Problem?
If your HVAC system is producing knocking and banging noises, that could indicate an existing problem. What’s more, ductwork that has gaps or rust might pose an efficiency issue. If there are watermarks, and rust, and signs of decay on the HVAC units, these are urgent matters to discuss with your home inspector.
What is the Age of the System?
Knowing how long your HVAC has been operating gives you a valuable perspective on the condition of your energy system. These HVACs, on average, can last between
10 years to 15 years.
Look for a History of Maintenance for the HVAC Unit
Knowing the maintenance history of your HVAC offers you a thorough understanding of its condition and alerts you to possible upcoming repairs. Consider these aspects of HVAC maintenance:
- How often did the system receive service?
- Was a routine checkup performed each winter and summer, or was the HVAC technician called only when there was an issue?
Ask the home seller for documentation from any previous service calls. Being fully informed on the maintenance history gives you insights into what types of repairs might be called for sooner than later.
Is There a Valid Warranty?
Secure through your realtor information on warranties that are still valid for the HVAC units. If there is an applicable warranty, find out if the coverage will continue to extend through the sale of the home. Be aware that warranties usually end with the transfer of homeownership. However, there are warranty options that might continue for a set time after the home sale.
What are the Average Heating and Cooling Costs?
Finding out what the current homeowner has been paying for their energy bills offers you the ability to plan for your utility expenses as part of your overall household budget.
Test Your Thermostat
It is important that your thermostat is working properly so you can calibrate your settings for maximum comfort year-round in your new home.
Immediately After Your Home Sale
Get an Energy Audit
What does an energy audit do? It assesses your home’s energy consumption and efficiency. This is an easy way to help you make adjustments or upgrades to minimize your energy bills in the future.
Monthly
Check or Replace Air Filters: Replace your air filters and make it a point to change them regularly so your HVAC system consistently generates clean healthy air. This also prevents damage to your HVAC system.
Look to Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning for HVAC Inspections
Do you need to get your HVAC examined to ensure optimal efficiency? Would you like guidance on how to set up your HVAC for maximum comfort in all your living spaces?
Then call on the award-winning team of field technicians at Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning. We understand that you need a unit that is reliable, intuitive, and long-lasting. At Apollo, we offer exceptional air-conditioning units designed to keep you comfortable while driving your energy costs down.
Learn more by contacting Apollo Heating and Air Conditioning! Call us at (509) 396-COLD (2653).
