Building a Home Addition
When you build a home addition or a bonus room, you will have to heat and cool that room. Although you may not think about it initially, the way you plan air conditioning for your home is related to the way in which the architect, engineers, or construction workers design and build the addition. If you plan to use central air conditioning, you will need to add ductwork. On the other hand, you may want to install a mini-split system. Discuss your options with a contractor before your plans are finalized, so that you can build your addition accordingly.
Selling Your Home
Although it’s not the most exciting renovation, upgrading your HVAC system offers a return on the investment, and could help to sell your home faster. Before listing your home, get preventive maintenance done or have an HVAC contractor check the condition of your system. If your system is aging, it might be in your best interest to upgrade it, especially to something energy efficient. If your system is in good shape, you may want to collect receipts of any maintenance and warranties to offer the next homeowner or to show any potential buyers.
Increase in Allergies or Asthma
When you have health concerns, you typically call your doctor. Perhaps you should also call your HVAC contractor. Flu-like symptoms, allergy-like symptoms, and an increase in asthma attacks can also be attributed to poor indoor air quality. If you or your family members start suffering any of these symptoms, then call in an HVAC professional to test your IAQ. Depending on the results, you should take steps to improve your IAQ, such as replacing your air filters, vacuuming regularly, and getting rid of pet hair and dander, dust, smoke, and bugs in your home and ductwork.
Building a New Home
Although many people choose central air and a furnace when building a new home, don’t assume that’s the best system for your new build. A heat pump may be more appropriate, or you may want to opt for a ductless or zone system for your house. Discuss all your options with an HVAC professional and make the best decision for your home before the plans are finalized.
Buying an Older Home
Older homes can come with an assortment of concerns. The amount and type of insulation, the age of the HVAC system, and even the windows are all things to consider when buying an older home. If you’ve bought an older home, consult with an HVAC contractor about the current system and options for eventual replacement. You may also want to ask the current homeowner to provide copies of the utility bills to get an idea of monthly energy costs you’d be facing.
Major Renovations
If you’re undertaking major renovations on your home that aren’t necessarily an addition or a bonus room, you want to think about your current HVAC system and whether it’s time to replace it. When you’re considering renovations, it’s an excellent opportunity to look at the big picture for your current home. If your utility bills are higher than normal, or you think your home would benefit from a different system, consider purchasing a new system, and make sure that you have a system that is the right fit for your home.