Due Diligence HVAC Checklist Helps Raleigh Homebuyers Avoid Premature A/C Breakdowns
Problems with your home’s air conditioning system never occur at an opportune time. But when HVAC equipment fails on a newly purchased home, the concept of “opportune time” seems out of sync with even the worst of expectations. This Due Diligence HVAC checklist aims to help Raleigh homebuyers avoid the aggravation of premature A/C breakdowns.
Herein, Raleigh-based Delta Heating & Cooling presents 5 simple HVAC-focused additions you should include in your homebuyer’s checklist.
1) Age of the HVAC System
The average functional life of an HVAC system ranges from twelve to seventeen years. Date the existing air conditioner and furnace or heat pump system by locating the on-unit labels. Do not overlook and installed window or wall-mount components.
2) Review the HVAC Maintenance History
Request all existing heating and cooling equipment service records. Ask also about any repairs or component replacements. Quality HVAC manufacturers build under rigid system standards. Skilled HVAC installers abide to proven A/C installation practices. Yet in all things mechanical, there remain a few exceptions to the expected life span. Question any system wherein the rate of and the extent of repairs seems abnormal to the age of the system.
3) Energy Efficiency
EnergyStar certifications are important, but do not limit the concept of energy efficiency solely to the Raleigh home air conditioning system. Energy Star certified homes must be crafted according to the following mandatory Energy Star five-point checklist (1):
- A completed HVAC design report to be presented to the Rater
- A completed Rater design checklist based upon compliance with home energy rating software
- Certification that the home water management system complies to certified home construction requirements
- A completed Rater Field checklist based upon two site visits
- A completed HVAC commissioning checklist wherein the HVAC installer provides evidence of compliance to the Builder, the Rater and the HVAC oversight organization.
Pay attention also to components such as increased insulation protection, installed energy-efficient windows, and roofing ventilation.
4) Request Confirmation For Recent Energy Expenses
In short ask for up-to-date energy bills. Excessive energy expenses indicate an ineffectively sealed structure or maybe even complications with the installed HVAC system.
5) Involve Your Local Raleigh HVAC Contractor
Complete HVAC inspection falls on the prospective homeowner, not your standard Raleigh home inspector. Before officially signing the closing documents, call in the services of a Nate-certified HVAC technician. If the contractor identifies an impending costly HVAC replacement situation, you will have time to work that cost into your final homebuyer’s negotiations.
HVAC’s Play Essential Role In New Home Comfort
Experiencing costly HVAC repair after the home closing frustrates your joy in buying a new regional-Raleigh home. Protect yourself: Call Delta Heating & Cooling before you make the closing deal. As experts in residential regional Raleigh heating and air conditioning platforms, Delta offers 24/7 responses to all of your HVAC inspection, maintenance, sales and installation needs.