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Plumbing and HVAC Questions to Ask During a Home Inspection

Getting your home inspected before you buy is a good idea. It’s best to come prepared with some questions about your plumbing and HVAC systems during the inspection. This can help you save time and money in the long run. Purchasing a new home is a big step and you want to make sure that everything is in working order before you make that big investment. Here are some tips and suggested questions you can ask at your home inspection. So, you can rest assured that you’re in the clear to make that offer.

Plumbing

Depending on the year your home was built, the plumbing in the home can be using outdated piping, which can eventually cause harm to your home if it hasn’t been properly maintained and/or checked. It’s beneficial to ask your inspector if the current plumbing is in good condition, as well as what type of pipes you have in your home. Ask about to state of your pipes, drains, and sewer lines. While a few minor fixes in older homes are normal, ask your inspector if there are no major issues that are concerning before you commit to buying a home. Some other questions to keep in mind regarding plumbing during your home inspection include:

What is the condition of the main sewer?

The main sewer drains are important to your home’s main plumbing system. They also are a common cause of plumbing issues.

What is the condition of the main water heater?

Water heaters generally last you up to 10 years, but if you’re buying your first home it is worth asking a technician to check the water heater to ensure that there is no damage and that it has been maintained properly.

Are the plumbing pipes working accurately? It’s important to make sure the pipes in your potential home are in good shape and that there are no major issues surrounding the piping system in your home. Is there pipe corrosion? Are there any leaks? Ask the professionals and make sure these issues are mentioned to the home seller. So that you don’t incur more costs to fix the home than you need to.

HVAC

When it comes to HVAC, you want to make sure that all parts are working appropriately so that your home stays cool and warm when you need it. Your HVAC system is in charge of keeping your home cool and warm year-round, making sure the current system is working appropriately will save you a lot of time and money on potential repairs. There are several things to consider asking during your home inspection:

  • Ask your home inspector about the age and condition of your HVAC system. If the HVAC system is between 11-15 years old, it will most likely need to be replaced soon.

 

  • Ask what size unit your home has? Is it a 2 ton or 3-ton unit?

 

  • What type of coolant does your home unit use? Some types of Freon are being phased out entirely, while new types are being produced with safer materials. It’s important you know what your system uses for optimal unit health and maintenance.

 

  • Ask your inspector if there are any receipts of annual HVAC checks to ensure the system has been kept up with. It is recommended that you have your HVAC system checked for maintenance at least once a year.

 

  • Lastly, you can ask your home inspector if there are any physical signs of a problem.

It is best to have a professional plumber and HVAC technician come out and look at your plumbing and HVAC systems before you buy a home. If you’re looking to buy a home and need the HVAC system or plumbing checked, call Quarter Moon Plumbing & AC at (210) 651-5899.