If you are looking to increase the value of your home, one of the easiest ways is by making renovations on features that are constantly overlooked: like the HVAC system. By neglecting to make proper changes and upgrades, you could actually be doing serious damage to how much your home is worth.
So what exactly should you consider when upgrading an HVAC unit? How can increases in efficiency and airflow positively affect resale values? And why do prospective buyers place such a high value on it? This article will provide you with the answers to these questions while also looking at what happens when your HVAC unit is not maintained regularly.
First Things First: How Problems Affect Resale Values
While it may seem like prospective buyers are willing to overlook some problems (for example, if your wallpaper needs replacing), there are actually quite a lot of things that can affect how much someone values your home. One study concluded that issues in the bathroom were one of the top considerations for potential house hunters, so by keeping yours in good condition, you can expect to improve its value.
Other aspects that prospective homeowners take into account include an older roof and windows. When considering whether or not to purchase a home, they will be watching carefully for signs of wear and tear. For example, if your windows are looking tired, this could be a deal-breaker.
A problem with the HVAC system is likely to have even more of an effect. Potential buyers will see that as not only being something that costs money to fix or update but also something that can decrease their own energy bills by making the home less efficient overall.
The Benefits of Upgrades
When done well, upgrading an HVAC unit can increase efficiency and airflow throughout your entire property – which is exactly what you want in terms of value gains. The truth is, many people are surprised by just how much they could benefit from regular maintenance and upgrades on their heating and cooling units. For example:
– An air conditioner that is older than ten years old will not be as efficient as it could be, which means higher bills for you
– Ductwork may need to be replaced, which also means more money spent on bills
– A furnace’s airflow can be improved by around 20% with routine maintenance/upgrades
All of this brings us back to the point about resale value. Here are just a few examples of how increased efficiency and airflow within your property could command top dollar when you sell:
– Your home will have fewer problems associated with an aging HVAC system, which makes it easier to maintain over time
– You are more likely to have lower energy bills – something everyone is looking for in terms of value gains
– Your furnace is more likely to work at full capacity, which means your home will be warmer and more comfortable
The Dangers of Neglecting HVAC Systems
So now you know the benefits of investing in an HVAC unit – but you also need to consider the potential consequences that come with neglecting your system. You may be reluctant to spend money on an upgrade due to the cost involved, but the fact is that annual maintenance could save you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars in energy bills over time.
But what happens when you simply ignore your HVAC system entirely? Here are just a few examples:
– The increased price of heat pump repairs
– Higher utility bills for your home
– A higher chance that your home will suffer from damage due to the HVAC system not operating as intended (for example, a faulty thermostat can cause serious problems)
When it comes down to it, homeowners have a responsibility to take care of their HVAC systems. And when you consider how much these repairs and upgrades could affect your resale value – there really is no question. If you take good care of your property now, the benefits only grow with time. In fact, one study found that 70% of Americans who have recently purchased a new home would definitely look at older houses if they were still on the market. So take the steps required to ensure that this continues to rise – and you can be sure to enjoy the benefits of increased resale value for many years to come.
What to Consider for Upgrades
You may think that any improvements made will result in increased costs; however, there are plenty of companies who will only work with energy-efficient models which ensure that homeowners save more money than they spend – especially within a short timeframe.
If you want to consider what options are most likely to benefit your home and the environment, speak with a trustworthy contractor who can explain everything in detail.
For example:
– The right insulation will protect your pipes from freezing – which could save them from damage
– Eco-friendly windows can keep your house warmer during winter/cooler during summer while cutting back on energy costs
– Ductless mini splitting systems use less electricity than forced-air heating and cooling, which means lower bills for homeowners
Once you know what steps to take, it’s relatively easy for homeowners to improve their HVAC systems. Whether you choose an upgrade or complete replacement, you can be sure that your home will benefit in the long run.
Always Contact a Professional for Upgrades
This is especially important if you are considering a replacement. If you are not sure what the best options are for your home, speak with a contractor who can explain everything in detail.
Remember that even small changes to an HVAC system could have huge benefits. By making one or two upgrades that increase energy efficiency and cool airflow, you can cut back on bills dramatically – which will leave more money in your pocket at the end of every month.
If you need help finding out what steps can be taken to improve your HVAC systems or want to make any improvements before selling your property, simply contact our team at Austin AC today for a free consultation.