When conducting a house hunt, remember to ask a few important HVAC questions before making an offer. In addition to knowing the condition of vital structural elements like the roof and the foundation, it’s important to also learn a few things about the heating and air-conditioning units. The condition of these units directly impacts monthly cooling and heating costs and may indicate whether expensive repairs will be needed soon.
Here are a few HVAC questions to ask while you’re looking for a good buy on the housing market:
How old are the units? Central air conditioners typically have an expected service life averaging 12 to 15 years. Gas-fired furnaces may last 20 years or more. As a prospective buyer thinking ahead, it’s important to consider that replacement of the entire A/C or furnace is usually the most financially viable option if the unit needs major repairs and has exceeded approximately 2/3 of its expected service life.
What recent repairs or component replacements have been required? A history of excessive repairs may indicate a poor-quality — and one which will likely need replacement soon — or one that has not been properly maintained or has been operated incorrectly.
What are typical monthly heating and cooling bills? This figure will vary according to the number of occupants and temperature preferences. However, if the present owners have been paying unusually high costs to warm or cool the house, it could be a red flag that the HVAC system is not operating up to the manufacturer’s efficiency specs.
Has the system received regular annual maintenance by a qualified HVAC professional? Regular annual maintenance supports optimum heating/cooling performance as well as maximum efficiency and low operating costs. It’s associated with longer service life and fewer breakdowns and repairs. A written record of regular annual maintenance is also required by most HVAC manufacturers in order to transfer the warranty on the units.
For more about important HVAC questions to ask when house hunting, contact the professionals at Air Assurance.