Buying a New Home? Get an HVAC Inspection First

The home inspection that lenders require gives you information about the structural and mechanical integrity of the home you’re considering, as well as reveal any obvious problems. It’s a good idea to schedule an HVAC inspection as well, since you’ll receive a more detailed and informed analysis of the home’s heating and cooling system.

HVAC systems are complex, and expensive to replace or repair. The licensed home inspector the lender uses may overlook situations that could cost you money and comfort in the future. A trusted HVAC specialist will give you more reliable information about the condition of the equipment.

What to Expect

An HVAC technician will conduct an in-depth examination of the equipment that will include safety checks for fuel-burning heating systems. Furnaces, particularly those in older homes, may emit unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide from a cracked heat exchanger or corrosion found in the vent or chimney. A cracked heat exchanger or rust inside the blower compartment is expensive to fix and typically requires a complete system replacement. Newer homes are less likely to have this problem, although it can develop regardless of system age.

The technician will discover any problems associated with the ductwork, including leaks and mold growth. If the home has a central cooling system, the HVAC inspection will reveal the condition and cleanliness of its components. A clean and well-maintained cooling system will run more efficiently and dependably than one that’s been neglected.

Benefits of an HVAC Inspection

Using an HVAC professional to evaluate the condition of the system not only gives you accurate information, but it can also help you negotiate with the seller. If the system needs work or is at the end of its life, you can use that information as leverage. The HVAC expert will also be able to give you solid information about upgrading it in the future, particularly in an older home, where the ductwork or lack of it can pose challenges for new heating or cooling system installations.

For more information about an HVAC inspection, contact C.R. Wolfe Heating & Air Conditioning. We’ve proudly served Middletown homeowners since 1945.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in Middletown, New York about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about HVAC inspections and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.

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