Home sellers and HVAC
November 4, 2011
Home sellers may want to check on the state of their home's major systems, such as plumbing and electricity, to ensure no problems will crop up during the search for a buyer, or worse, during negotiations. Finding a fault in the property that late could cause buyers to lower their offer, or to change their minds about purchasing the home entirely.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning should be inspected twice a year,
according to HouseLogic. While a professional is necessary to check on
sophisticated or specialized systems like the carbon monoxide expulsion flue, homeowners can perform a general inspection themselves.
Importance of caring for a home
They may wish to begin by examining air filters. These typically require regular replacement or cleaning, depending on whether they are disposable or longer-lasting models. In either case, dust and dirt stuck in the filters prevents them from functioning properly. Grills and registers should also be easy to check on.
They can be clogged with pet hair, dirt and other small particles. They must be uncovered to allow proper circulation of air. Less exposed parts of the system may be harder to inspect, but they are also less likely to develop flaws.
These concerns are temporary enough that they should not scare away a prospective home buyer. Buyers, however, may not be aware of the full situation. If they notice a home is stuffy while walking through, or poor air flow causes some rooms to be unpleasantly hot or cold, they may not realize why. Checking on important systems also makes it more likely homeowners will notice any flaws before they become major ones. This, in turn, makes it more likely any professional repair, replacement or labor costs will be lower.
Maintenance and timing
When thinking about selling a home, people generally do not want to spend additional money on repairs or upgrades if they can avoid it. While they can add to the value and justify a higher price, the cost is typically higher than the return. This adds to the importance of keeping systems in good repair, s ince that can eliminate the need for expensive replacement work.
When work is necessary, homeowners should try to do it in advance. Heating and air conditioning professionals are busiest when they are needed most, so it's wise to hire them for any necessary work before temperatures become particularly hot or cold, if possible. This will likely allow more convenient scheduling as well.