How to Increase Home Value Without Replacing Your HVAC System

Until this point, you couldn’t have imagined leaving a space you’ve been making your own for several decades or even a few years. Not every home was meant to be your forever home, but this place sure came close. Now, you’re putting your home on the market, hoping to get a few bites from eager sellers looking to make new memories. However, you’re considering purchasing a new HVAC system to potentially add value so you can increase the sales price.

Your first question is probably: Does a new HVAC add home value? And your second question is likely: How much value does a new HVAC system actually add to my home’s value?

Both are extremely valid questions and ones we’re here to help you answer.

Does a New HVAC Add Home Value? And If So, How Much?

The simple answer is yes; it certainly can add value to your home. You could get as much as a 5-10% return on investment. That equates to roughly $2,000-3,000 more you can add to your home’s price tag. Still, if you don’t have to replace your HVAC system, we recommend you don’t. Taking care of your system can help save on costs and avoid serious mechanical issues that the future owner will have to combat.

5 Ways to Maintain Your HVAC, Add Home Value, & Avoid Replacing It

1. Upkeep All Components

Maintaining your HVAC components is a surefire way to keep your unit operating efficiently and almost like new. When you notice an issue with system parts, don’t wait for them to fix themselves. Spoiler alert: They won’t self-repair, and the problem could worsen. A licensed and certified heating and cooling professional—serving Claymont, Hockessin, Montchanin, Rockland, and Yorkland—can perform a thorough inspection and inform you of any parts that need attention or complete replacement.

2. Maintain & Clean Ductwork

Annual maintenance is vital to the longevity of your unit. And when you’re having an HVAC professional inspect your unit, it’s also beneficial to check and clean ductwork to ensure it operates efficiently. Remember, your ductwork requires cleaning every 3 to 5 years from a qualified professional so you can avoid a potential duct cleaning scam.

3. Complete Maintenance on Time

Having a maintenance schedule for vital systems like a heating and cooling system goes a long way in keeping it functional. So, when you’re ready to sell your home, you know that an HVAC system is one less thing you (or the new owner) have to worry about. Potential homebuyers want to know that the appliances they’re paying for are well maintained.

Maintenance timelines for HVAC components typically look like this:

• Pipes should be checked every 2 to 5 years.
• Air filters should be changed every 3 months or 90 days.
• Heat pumps should be cleaned at least once a year.
• Air conditioner drainage lines should be flushed and cleaned every year.

Missing these important maintenance tasks can lead to serious issues with your HVAC system and make it difficult to increase your home’s sales price. Plus, you don’t want to cause more issues for the new homeowner after the final sale. In some states, neglecting to disclose certain system problems could make you liable for the repairs.

4. Upgrade Only Necessary System Components

The point of not buying a new HVAC is to save on costs, so you end up with more money in your pocket at resale. If you can avoid investing in an entire system, we suggest upgrading or adding specific components like a central dehumidifier and a cooling component to a forced-air heating system. Pay attention to normal seasonal weather conditions to help you make this decision. After all, you don’t want to spend unnecessary money.

Add a central dehumidifier

Any time you can increase the capabilities of an existing HVAC system, you’re on your way to adding home value without completely replacing your unit. With hot, humid summers in Wilmington, adding a central dehumidifier to maintain low humidity levels indoors will surely get home buyers talking (and bidding).

Invest in a cooling component

Do you currently have a forced-air heating system to save energy costs and heat your home more efficiently? Great! You can add a cooling component to enhance your heating capacity instead of purchasing a new HVAC system. This green alternative saves you hundreds on your energy bill and increases your home’s resale value.

5. Clean Around Your HVAC System

Cleaning your HVAC periodically is vital. But keeping the area in and around your unit clean is just as important. Whether your HVAC system is housed in a utility closet, garage, basement, crawlspace, etc., dirt and grime can build up. You don’t want potential homebuyers to feel that you don’t take care of your HVAC unit. This task won’t necessarily increase the value of your home, but it certainly will help your home look more appealing and could help drive up the price.

Are you looking for help with your heating and cooling system? Our Wilmington team serves homeowners in Claymont, Hockessin, Montchanin, Rockland, and Yorkland. You can rely on us to maintain your system and potentially help you see a larger investment return.