Understand How Your Homeowners Association Impacts Your HVAC Requirements
Whether in a community of single-family homes or an attached community, homeowner associations (HOA) exist to protect the property interests of everyone within a community. They establish and help residents adhere to rules and regulations that govern the appearance and other aspects of both public and private areas. That being said, HOAs can complicate HVAC requirements for individual property owners.
Some HOAs in single-family home communities have restrictions that regulate the exterior noise of a home. One alternative to a possibly noisy outside air conditioning compressor is a ductless mini-split HVAC system. These systems are among the most versatile and energy-efficient types of HVAC options. Examples of a mini-split system are the Mitsubishi Electric alternative HVAC systems. They offer both ductless and ducted cooling and heating systems that focus on individual rooms and living spaces instead of utilizing a one size fit all approach.
While mini-split systems are not that well known in the United States, they have been successfully used for decades in Europe, Asia, and other places around the globe. These HVAC options reduce energy costs and provide easy solutions for entire homes, multi-zone living spaces, and enclosed patios. They are ideal for additions and renovations as well as homes without space for ductwork. Mini-split systems are also an excellent solution to HOA requirements regarding the appearance of outdoor components of your HVAC system.
Something to understand before you buy a home in an attached community with an HOA is who is financially responsible for ductwork maintenance or repairs. In large condominium complexes, commercial-style HVAC systems are sometimes used that run cooled air through a ductwork network. If the HOA is responsible for maintenance of the ductwork, review their budget for reserves to ensure that funds have been set aside for not only maintenance but also repairs and improvements as they are necessary over the years.
When the individual units have individually dedicated air conditions, furnaces, ductwork, and compressors, then the repair and maintenance of these separate systems fall into the responsibility of each individual owner. As parts of these HVAC systems may be located on a roof or somewhere else where they are not easily identifiable, it is important to ask questions about the various components and what the standard practice for service is.
If you are thinking about purchasing in a community with an HOA or already live in one, it is important to understand any and all HVAC requirements whether it is for a single-family home or some sort of attached community. Residents in the Chicago North Shore area have trusted GV’S Heating and Cooling for all of their HVAC needs for almost 30 years. We value our excellent reputation and strong customer satisfaction so we give your HVAC systems the attention they deserve. To learn more about the mini-split systems from Mitsubishi Electric or for any of your HVAC needs, contact us today!
