Consider the story of a young couple from Arizona who purchased a home in northern California last autumn, which highlights the importance of having a residential HVAC service inspection before buying a house. Their initial home inspection report mentioned that the furnace seemed to be in working order. However, shortly after moving in, the furnace malfunctioned, revealing rust and cracks in the heat exchanger. This unexpected breakdown resulted in a significant expense for the couple, who were still settling into their new home and lacked a home warranty to cover the cost.
Had they opted for a thorough HVAC inspection by a specialized heating and air conditioning service company, they would have discovered the issues beforehand, potentially avoiding the expense or negotiating with the sellers for a replacement furnace.
There are compelling reasons to prioritize an HVAC inspection before purchasing a home, but it’s crucial to understand the distinction between a general home inspection and a specialized HVAC inspection.
Home inspections, as defined by the American Society of Home Inspectors, evaluate the current condition of a house without passing or failing it. While home inspectors meticulously examine various aspects of a property, including electrical systems and plumbing, they may lack the specialized training and credentials of HVAC experts. Consequently, they might overlook technical HVAC issues that could lead to substantial expenses later on.
Statistics from Home Warranty reveal that HVAC systems account for a significant portion of their claims, yet these systems are often under-inspected during home inspections. Therefore, seeking a separate HVAC inspection from a qualified heating and cooling contractor is advisable.
Although an HVAC inspection incurs an additional cost, it should be viewed as an investment. Furnaces and air conditioners are among the most expensive appliances in a home, and unexpected repairs can strain finances. Moreover, a well-maintained HVAC system contributes to energy efficiency, reducing long-term operating costs and potential consequences of neglect.