When it comes to home maintenance, HVAC systems often get overlooked. But if you plan on holding onto your home for a long time or looking to sell, it’s important to give your HVAC systems the attention they deserve. Failing to do so can lead to costly repairs or decreased home value.
That’s because HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems play an important role in enhancing a home’s value and making your property attractive to potential buyers. Properly maintaining your HVAC can keep it running efficiently, saving you money and increasing your home’s overall worth.
Homeowners should know that there are many tangible ways that HVAC maintenance can improve their home’s value. When you prioritize your HVAC maintenance, you’ll enjoy a range of benefits beyond the monetary values.
Steps for HVAC Maintenance to Increase Home Value
First things first: schedule regular maintenance with a licensed contractor. Similar to getting your car serviced, regular inspection and cleaning will keep your HVAC systems healthy and running efficiently.
The contractor will check for problems such as malfunctioning or blocked ducts, clogged filters, and other areas that may need attention. Having a professional perform a checkup can help prevent some of the issues that could otherwise cost you money down the line.
Improve Energy Efficiency: Insulation and HVAC Unit Condition
Insulation is an important factor in the functionality and longevity of your HVAC system. Good insulation allows heat and cool air to stay in the home longer, helping your HVAC system run more efficiently and requiring less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature. Insulation also reduces noise from outside, too.
In addition, when it’s time to replace an HVAC system, consider installing a more energy-efficient model. Today’s HVAC systems are far more efficient than their predecessors and will help save energy—hence energy costs—while also helping the environment.
Remember, the more efficient and up-to-date your HVAC systems, the better it is for both you and potential homebuyers. Buyers will be more attracted to a home that offers lower energy bills, especially in the long run.
Ensure Clean Air: Change Filters on a Regular Basis
The importance of changing air filters in a timely manner cannot be overemphasized. The air filter is essentially the lungs of your HVAC system. All the air from within the HVAC unit goes through the filter first, so it’s responsible for keeping your family safe from germs, allergens in the air, mold, and other unhealthy pollutants.
Your filter should be changed every 30-90 days depending on the model you have. When replacing the filter, make sure to choose one with the appropriate MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value)—which measures how effectively an air filter traps and holds back particles—to provide good airflow and adequate filtration.
You may want to consider air purifiers and humidifiers to make the air in your home cleaner and more comfortable. This can make your home more attractive to potential buyers down the road, as these are becoming more and more popular amenities.
Essential Maintenance and Home Improvements to Increase Home Value
- Schedule regular maintenance with a licensed contractor
- Improve energy efficiency with new insulation and HVAC unit
- Change air filters regularly
- Install air purifiers and humidifiers
- Check for any leaks/damage
- Upgrade weatherstripping and ventilation systems
- Check and update the thermostat
Conclusion
HVAC maintenance is a must to ensure your systems are running efficiently and to make your home more attractive to potential buyers. The benefits of HVAC maintenance are two-fold—it can help you save money in the long-run while also increasing the value of your home.