Purchasing your first home? Owning a house is different than renting, because rather than simply paying your heating bills and calling your landlord when the HVAC system stops working, you are responsible for maintaining the system and keep it in proper working order.
Chances are, if you are getting ready to move into your first home, you don’t know much about the heating and cooling system. We are here to help! By familiarizing yourself with your system, you will help yourself recognize when things need upkeep and repair. Here are the things to know and to take a look at once you’ve moved in:
FURNACE & A/C UNIT
An inspection of the equipment should involve several of the senses. Inspect both units for water marks, rust or signs of decay. Listen to the system running for any strange clanging, banging or rattling noises. Take a deep whiff – is the furnace or air conditioner emitting an “off” smell? All of these are signs that the equipment was either installed improperly or is in need of repair.
Ask the previous owner of the home for maintenance records and any notes that service technicians have made; you have the right to this information, since the home belongs to you now. If the A/C is at least 10 years old and/or the furnace is at least 15, they may need to be replaced soon.
AIR DUCTS
Look in the ducts in the basement and attic of the home. Keep an eye out for loose connections, condensation, gaps in the ductwork and rust. Repairing such issues will save you a lot of money on your energy bills moving forward.
INSULATION
A home’s insulation is essential to the comfort level in summer and winter; it keeps outdoor air outside where it belongs, and indoor air in. Walk through the home and take note of any temperature changes from room to room. If there is a draft in a certain room, its insulation may be insufficient. Additional insulation can be pricey, but it is a worthy investment.
SEALING
Doors and windows throughout your new home should be tightly sealed. Signs of poor sealing are fog or condensation on windows and mold on window sills or door frames. Broken seals mean the air from inside can escape, making your HVAC system work harder and less efficiently.
Moving into a new home is a big step in life, and you want to make sure that it is an investment and protection in your future. Ensure your heating and cooling system is doing its job to keep you as comfortable as possible in your new home sweet home.
Courtesy of Masters
