4 HVAC System Tips for Your New Home
When purchasing a home, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of finding the perfect space. However, it’s also crucial to be mindful of potential maintenance and replacement costs—especially when it comes to your HVAC System. To help you make informed decisions, here are key tips to be a more educated buyer.
Tip 1: When viewing homes, check the age of the HVAC system. If it’s nearing the end of its typical lifespan, plan for a potential replacement in your budget.
Statistics are a powerful predictor when it comes to HVAC failure. The average lifespan for a furnace or air conditioner is around 18 years. Even if the system appears to be in good shape, reaching or exceeding that age significantly increases the risk of failure. While no one can predict exactly when it will happen, a system that’s over 18 or 19 years old is past its prime.
Tip 2: Ask the seller for maintenance records or service history. If there’s no documentation, a professional inspection is a must.
One of the best indicators of HVAC health is whether it has been regularly maintained. Many homeowners keep service records, which can give you insight into how well the system has been cared for. A system that’s received consistent attention is more likely to be safe and efficient.
If it looks like the furnace hasn’t seen “tender loving care” in over a decade, it raises safety and performance concerns.
Tip 3: Consider an escrow account for HVAC replacement
If the HVAC system needs replacing, sellers often seek the most cost-effective option to fulfill their obligation. While a basic replacement may meet safety standards, it might not align with your efficiency or comfort preferences as the buyer. This is where an escrow account can be a game-changer.
How escrow works:
- The seller gets a quote for a basic replacement, say $3,000 for a standard furnace.
- Instead of installing the furnace themselves, the seller places that $3,000 into an escrow account.
- The buyer then uses those funds toward a system of their choice, such as a high-efficiency heat pump, paying the difference if needed.
This gives the buyer flexibility to choose a system that fits their long-term goals.
Tip 4: Call Baumann & DeGroot to inspect your potential new home’s HVAC system!
While home inspectors provide a general assessment, it’s wise to bring in an HVAC professional for a comprehensive system evaluation. This inspection can identify potential safety hazards, efficiency issues, or signs of future failures that a generalist might overlook.
We’ll provide a detailed assessment to give you peace of mind before closing. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands in unexpected repairs.
By taking these proactive steps, you’ll be empowered to make confident decisions about your home purchase. A little due diligence today can lead to years of comfort and energy savings.
Need expert advice or a professional inspection? Contact Baumann & DeGroot Heating & Cooling at (616)396-4328 or www.baumannanddegroot.com/schedule-online for reliable HVAC insights.
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