What do I need to look for when I am purchasing a new home?

For many people, buying a home is a rite of passage. And why not? Purchasing a home means creating a space of your own, setting down roots, joining a community, and having a place that always feels safe. Purchasing a home is a fun process, and it’s made even better when you’ve done a little research to determine what type of home and features work for your lifestyle and budget.

We break down some of the common questions we get from people who are house hunting related to what we do best — HVAC and plumbing.

HVAC

• What should I look for in a home’s furnace?

  First things first, if you’re looking at an older home, you should determine if the home has a furnace or boiler. From there, you can tell what kind of maintenance will be required, see if there’s a warranty, and understand the efficiency and longevity of the system.

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• How important is an updated AC unit?

  Since space cooling accounts for 6% of the average household’s energy use, it’s important to check the age of the AC unit.¹ From there, you can decide if the unit is as efficient as you want it, if the size works for your needs, and if the type of unit is something you’re looking for long-term.

• What does it mean if the house I like has a heat pump?

  Heat pumps are similar to furnaces in that they heat your home, but instead of creating heat, they transfer heat from the outside of your home, through water, or even the ground, depending on the type of heat pump. Just like any other piece of HVAC equipment, heat pumps require maintenance, and you should see if factors such as size and efficiency work for you.

• I found a home I like, but it’s going to need some work. Where do I start?

  Many people have encountered that moment where they find THE home, but it needs some updating. This is especially true for old homes. We put together a list of important HVAC and plumbing improvements to consider as you think about renovations.
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  Commercial Service offers 24/7 emergency services and is always happy to send over a certified technician to assess any potential problems. For non-emergency repairs, schedule an appointment with our easy Online Scheduling or by calling 812-339-9114.

Plumbing

• The plumbing passed the inspection, but how do I fix small leaks I noticed?

  You can have a solid plumbing system and still experience small leaks. That shouldn’t be a deal breaker as long as you’ve determined it’s not an issue with the pipes. Read how to replace small plumbing issues from faucet leaks to outdoor hose repair.

• Speaking of pipes, what’s this water pipe insulation I keep hearing about?

  Water pipe insulation is a relatively inexpensive way to prevent heat loss, save money, and many other benefits for you and your new home. It’s a home project many decide to take on themselves, so it’s worth asking if the water pipes have been insulated.

• Do I need a new water heater?

  Water heaters are one of those items that don’t seem like a necessity, but if you’re looking at a home that’s older, you’ll quickly notice if there are issues with your water taking a while to heat up. Water heaters are a great solution, especially if you know which type works best for you.

• The plumbing in my new home is sound, but how do I make small fixture changes?

  A big part of making a home your own is making sure the small details reflect your style. Thankfully, changing your plumbing hardware such as faucets and spigots is easy once you have a little bit of guidance as to what type of tools you need and where to find new fixtures.

Purchasing a new home is an exciting prospect, and it’s even more exciting when you are equipped with the right questions to ask your realtor as you consider your move. If you have other questions about HVAC or plumbing items to repair or replace in a new home, give Commercial Service a call at 812-339-9114.

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