Buying a New Home? Don't Forget To Inspect the Furnace

When buying a new home there are countless things to check to ensure there are no hidden surprises. One of the most important is the home's furnace. Taking the time to ask questions and inspect the unit can save you potential headaches down the road. Here are some steps to take:

1. Turn on the furnace and listen for noises. Squeaks and rattles could indicate a mechanical problem, lack of maintenance or just be symptomatic of an older furnace that is showing its age.

2. Ask the real estate agent for the age of the furnace. A gas furnace will typically last 15-20 years. Also, keep in mind that older furnaces can be more expensive to operate.

3. Check the unit's EnergySTAR rating. If you're lucky the label will still be attached to the unit. If not, the unit's serial number can be used to contact the manufacturer for efficiency information.

Finally, for your peace of mind, it's a good idea to have the home's heating and cooling system inspected to identify any potential problems that could end up costing you money in repairs or higher utility bills.

Have questions about heating systems? Call ABC Plumbing, Sewer, Heating, Cooling and Electric. We're here to help.