Just Bought a House? 6 Ways to Assess Your New HVAC System

1. Ask for Records

It’s essential for you to know how well your furnace and air conditioner have been maintained, as it can help you decide if the old system is worth the upkeep. Ask the previous homeowners if they have any records of furnace and air conditioner maintenance. If they don’t, look on or near the units themselves. Some technicians leave a dated record on a slip beside the machinery as a record of service done. If you see frequent repair slips, it’s probably a good idea to have the unit looked over — it may be in need of a replacement. Conversely, seeing no slips at all might not be a good thing either: there might have been little to no maintenance work done over the previous few years, which could lead to a reduced system lifespan.

2. Pay Attention to Comfort

HVAC systems that aren’t functioning properly often make a home uncomfortable to live in. Some rooms may feel stifling and muggy, while others feel cold and drafty. If you notice issues like this, you may have air leaks in your home, clogged vents or ductwork, a filter that needs changing, or an air conditioner that needs to be repaired or replaced. Your home may also lack insulation and need some extra blown into your walls and/or attic by a professional installer.

3. Find Out Equipment Age

Before moving in, make sure you find out how old your HVAC equipment is. If it’s more than ten years old, it really should be replaced. If it’s getting close to that age, replacement is still a wise investment. Advances in HVAC technology have come a long way in recent years, making new models more efficient to operate.

4. Inspect the Ductwork

Your home can have a brand new furnace and air conditioner but still feel uncomfortable if your ductwork is damaged. Look for any gaps, cracks, holes, or loose connections in the ducts. Signs like these mean you might need duct cleaning or replacement, especially if the air quality in the home seems stuffy or otherwise poor.

5. Inquire About Insulation

A well-insulated home puts less stress on your HVAC systems, allowing you to save money without sacrificing comfort. Ask the previous owners what type of insulation the home has and how long ago it was installed. If it’s been many years since new insulation was added, it’s probably time to add more in order to prevent drafty rooms and cold spots.

6. Schedule an Inspection

Before closing on the house, if possible, have an HVAC company do a thorough inspection of the system. They’ll perform any needed maintenance tasks and make sure the system is functioning well.