There are several different important components or systems you may be considering when going through the process of purchasing a home, and the HVAC system is naturally prominent on any such list. If your purchase will be taking place during the colder part of the year, the furnace will naturally be one of the key HVAC elements you’ll be looking into. 

At Lee’s Heating and Air, we’re here to offer a wide range of heating services to clients around Salt Lake City, Provo, American Fork and nearby areas, including furnace installations, repairs, maintenance and more. We also regularly assist clients as they purchase new homes, helping them inspect and sometimes upgrade their HVAC systems. While they are not necessarily common, here are a few of the kinds of furnace repairs or issues that could be present in a new home, depending on the levels of care they received from prior owners, plus how you should be thinking about them as a buyer. 

Dirty or Clogged Air Ducts

Generally speaking, ductwork in a home’s HVAC system should be cleaned, tested and resealed at least once every five years, and possibly more often depending on the home’s unique makeup and other factors. If you’re purchasing a new home, one of our top recommendations is that you have us inspect the ductwork at some point before closing to ensure it is in good shape and will not lead to any major issues with your furnace or other HVAC components.

Ducts play a major role in air quality and overall system efficiency. If they are clogged or dirty, it can lead to several problems such as uneven heating, higher utility bills and even mold growth. As a buyer, you want to have peace of mind knowing that the ducts in your new home are free of dirt and contaminants.

Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat is essentially the control center for your furnace – it tells the furnace when to turn on and off, and at what temperature. If the thermostat is not functioning properly, you may experience issues with your heating system, such as inconsistent temperatures or no heat at all.

Before purchasing a new home, make sure to check that the thermostat is working correctly. If it’s an older model or showing signs of malfunctioning, consider having it replaced for optimal heating performance.

Dirty or Worn Filters

Another important component of your furnace is the air filter. This should be changed regularly, at least every three months, to keep your system running smoothly and prevent any damage. If the previous owners neglected to change the filter, it could lead to poor indoor air quality, reduced efficiency and even costly repairs down the line.

As a buyer, it’s important to ask about the last time the filter was changed and make sure it is done before you move in. You may also want to consider investing in high-quality filters for better performance and improved air quality.

Pilot Light and Sensors

In other cases, the furnace may have issues with its pilot light or sensors. These are crucial components that need to be in good working condition for the furnace to function properly. As a buyer, it’s important to have these checked during your home inspection and address any necessary repairs before finalizing the purchase.

Blower Motor

In a basic furnace operation, the blower motor is responsible for circulating heated air throughout the home. If this component is not functioning correctly, you may experience uneven heating or no heat at all. Before purchasing a new home, make sure to have the blower motor inspected to ensure it is in good working condition.

If this is not the case, our team at Lee’s Heating and Air can assist with repairs or replacements to ensure your new home is comfortable and efficiently heated.

Purchasing a new home comes with its own set of challenges and considerations when it comes to HVAC systems. Ensuring that all components are functioning properly before finalizing the purchase can save you time and money in the long run. Be sure to keep these potential furnace issues in mind and contact Lee’s Heating and Air for any inspections, repairs or maintenance needs. No matter the issue, our team has the knowledge and expertise to keep your furnace running smoothly all winter long, whether you’re in SLC, Provo, American Fork or any surrounding area of Utah.