Before Buying, Have Your HVAC Inspection by a Pro

Buying a home can be overwhelming. There is so much to look at and consider before you make a decision, but one thing you don’t want to overlook is the HVAC system. And that means not settling for the somewhat cursory once-over provided in the home inspection, but insisting on a thorough going-over by a licensed and experienced HVAC consultant.

Here are some of the ins and outs of hiring for an HVAC inspection:

What a Home Inspection Includes

Prior to the closing on a house, a home inspector will go through a home and inspect the structure and systems, including plumbing, electrical and HVAC. But when it comes to operation of the HVAC, all the inspector will do is turn it on and off so that it can be certified that it’s working. You need to know a whole lot more than that.

For instance, how old is the system? If it is at least 10 years old, you may be facing replacement in the next few years. That should figure into your closing costs. Does the air conditioner use R-22 refrigerant, which is being phased out? If so, you are again facing replacement, because R-22 is getting harder to find and is rising in cost every year.

How well has the equipment been maintained? Are there good records that show when and what kind of maintenance was performed? Has the filter been changed regularly over the years?

Also, what is the efficiency rating of the system? Is it sized right for the home so that you will get the maximum in performance and efficiency? What are the average annual costs for running the system? If you’re buying a new home, you can ask about efficiency and sizing, and ask the inspect to assess the quality of the installation and equipment.

A certified HVAC consultant can find out the answers to these questions, and you can bring them to the table as you negotiate closing costs.

To learn more about an HVAC inspection, contact Rinaldi’s Energy Solutions. We serve Orlando and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Orlando, Florida and surrounding areas about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).

Credit/Copyright Attribution: “iStock”