HVAC Considerations When Buying a New Home

When shopping for a new home in Woodbridge, Virginia, the HVAC system isn’t typically the first thing on your mind, but it is an important consideration. The HVAC system makes a big difference in the energy efficiency of your home. It’s best to check the condition of the system before making an offer.

Ask About the Current System

The HVAC system is one of the largest investments in a home, and it is important to analyze the system early in the process. Important information you will need include:

• The system’s age
• Determining if it is the most efficient type of system for the home and your needs
• Finding out if the previous owners invested in preventive maintenance
• Warranty information

Knowing what you are inheriting could save you from energy waste and unplanned replacement costs. Your HVAC system is a very important part of your daily comfort needs. Don’t forget to make this a part of your purchase decision.

Ask for Previous Utility Bills

Your utility bills are a significant factor when you budget your monthly expenses. Ask the current owners to see a year’s worth of previous utility bills if they are available. You need to understand what to expect during the different seasons. You can also compare those bills to average bills for similar homes to know if the HVAC system is working efficiently or if there is some other problem affecting energy efficiency in the home.

Consider Replacement

If the HVAC system is older, you may need to consider replacing it. It’s possible to use an aging system as a bargaining chip when buying a new home. Although a problematic HVAC system will likely turn up during the home inspection, you don’t have to be blindsided with an issue that late in the process. You also don’t want to fall in love with a house that will need potentially significant investments right after the purchase.

If you have concerns about the HVAC system in a potential new home, we can talk you through the specifics. Call Brennan’s Heating and Cooling today on 703-783-0145 to speak with an experienced professional.

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