Things New Homebuyers in San Angelo, Texas Should Look Out for in HVAC Systems

When purchasing a new home, the condition of the HVAC system (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) should be a top consideration. In San Angelo, Texas, where the weather can be extreme—hot summers and chilly winters—having a properly functioning HVAC system is crucial for comfort and energy efficiency. Here's what you should look for and the potential consequences of overlooking these aspects.

Age of the HVAC System

The age of the HVAC system can significantly impact its efficiency and lifespan. Most systems last around 15 years, and if the system is approaching that age or older, you may face expensive repairs or even an early replacement. In San Angelo's hot summer months, an old air conditioning unit is more likely to break down, leaving you without cool air during the hottest time of the year.

Potential Consequence: If the system is over 15 years old, you might face high repair costs or an early need for replacement, which can add thousands of dollars to your purchase.

Maintenance History

Ask the seller for records of maintenance and repairs. Regular maintenance is key to keeping the system running smoothly, especially in a place like San Angelo, where HVAC systems are working hard year-round. Lack of proper maintenance could indicate neglected components, such as dirty filters, clogged ducts, or potential refrigerant leaks.

Potential Consequence: If the system hasn’t been properly maintained, it could lead to inefficiencies, higher energy bills, and unexpected breakdowns. For example, clogged filters can cause the system to overheat and potentially fail, leading to costly repairs.

Size of the System

The HVAC system should be properly sized for the size of the home. If it's too small, it won’t adequately heat or cool the space, especially during San Angelo's extreme weather. If it's too large, it will cycle on and off too frequently, causing increased wear and tear on the system and higher energy bills.

Potential Consequence: An improperly sized system can cause discomfort and inefficiency. You may need to replace the system entirely or spend extra on energy costs to keep the house comfortable.

Ductwork Condition

Leaky ducts can waste energy by allowing heated or cooled air to escape before it reaches your living spaces. This is particularly important in San Angelo, where the temperature swings can be drastic. Sealing or replacing ducts can be an expensive repair if they're in poor condition. It can be difficult to inspect ductwork without the proper equipment, so we suggest you talk to a local HVAC expert or a skilled home inspector in order to have them properly inspected.

Potential Consequence: Poor ductwork leads to uneven temperatures and higher energy costs, as the HVAC system has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Refrigerant Levels

If you're buying a home with an older air conditioner, ask the seller if the refrigerant levels have been checked recently. Low refrigerant can reduce the efficiency of the system and cause it to overheat, leading to system failure.

Potential Consequence: Low refrigerant may signal a leak, which can be an expensive fix. In addition, running an AC with low refrigerant can cause long-term damage to the compressor, the most expensive part to replace.

Signs of Wear or Damage

Inspect the HVAC system for visible signs of wear or damage. Look for rust, corrosion, or unusual noises from the furnace or AC unit. In San Angelo, where humidity and dust can affect HVAC systems, these issues might indicate underlying problems that could worsen over time.

Potential Consequence: Visible damage or strange noises can be a sign of major problems. If left unchecked, these issues could lead to complete system failure, especially during extreme weather conditions.

Energy Efficiency

Check the SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio) rating of the air conditioner and the AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency) rating of the furnace. These ratings indicate how energy-efficient the system is. Older systems or systems with low ratings can significantly increase your monthly utility bills, especially in a region like San Angelo, where air conditioning usage is high in the summer.

Potential Consequence: A low-efficiency system may cost you hundreds of extra dollars annually in utility bills. In some cases, replacing it with a more efficient model can result in long-term savings.

System Placement and Accessibility

Make sure the HVAC system is easily accessible for maintenance and repairs. In San Angelo, where dust and debris are common, systems should be easy to clean. If the HVAC unit is placed in a cramped or poorly ventilated area, it may not work efficiently or could become damaged over time, and when it does your ac repair man may have issues actually fixing the unit.

Potential Consequence: A difficult-to-access HVAC unit can lead to neglect, causing problems that are harder and more expensive to fix. Proper airflow and regular maintenance are key to extending the life of your system.

Conclusion

When buying a home in San Angelo, Texas, the condition of the HVAC system should be a key factor in your decision-making process. Aging systems, poor maintenance, inefficient designs, and visible damage could all be red flags. By carefully inspecting the HVAC system, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements and ensure a comfortable, energy-efficient living environment for years to come.

If you're unsure about the condition of the system, it's wise to have a professional HVAC technician perform an inspection before finalizing the purchase.