Buying a secondhand HVAC system that’s a fraction of the cost of a brand-new unit may seem like a steal, but is it a wise decision? Before you write a check, whip out your debit card, or send any Venmo money, follow these simple tips:
Find Out What You Can About the Unit
The first thing you need to do when purchasing a secondhand HVAC system is find out everything you can about it. You’ll want to look up the model number online to find out its efficiency rating and related information. You can also ask the current owner for documentation about its age and any repair history.
Make Sure the Unit Is the Correct Size
One of the biggest problems with purchasing a used HVAC unit is finding one that’s the right size. Some homeowners will purchase a unit because it’s a great price, thinking that they can deal with one that’s not quite a perfect fit. The problem is that an improperly fitted HVAC system will cause energy usage waste, moisture problems, etc.
Figure Out Who Will Install the Secondhand HVAC Unit
Before money changes hands, you may want to figure out who’s going to install the HVAC unit for you. Local HVAC contractors may not do it because they won’t want to take responsibility in case they’re installing a system that doesn’t work once the job is complete. The problem is that doing it yourself or having friends help you puts you at risk of an improperly installed system.
Determine If the Savings Is Worth It
You can save quite a bit of money by purchasing a secondhand HVAC system, but it might not be worth it. Once you remove an HVAC unit from the home where it was originally installed, it won’t be under warranty. If something goes wrong, you’ll have to pay for repairs. Plus, new units are much more energy-efficient, so that’s probably the better option.
If you have any questions about secondhand HVAC equipment or would like to schedule an appointment, call the HVAC professionals at Mowery Heating, Cooling and Plumbing today. We’ve been serving the needs of Indianapolis since 1970.
