For all their benefits, homeowner’s associations or HOAs may make it harder for some people to meet their heating and cooling needs. HOAs exist to protect owners’ property interests, and to do so, they impose strict rules governing the upkeep and appearance of public and private areas. Here, you’ll learn how living in an HOA community may affect your access to air conditioner repair in Geneva.
Can HOAs Restrict AC Units?
Many homeowner’s associations, especially those in newer developments, have rules against window-mounted air conditioning units. If your neighborhood has regulations on noise, what’s kept in the yard, or the home’s exterior appearance, a heat pump or ductless mini split AC may be enough to meet your needs. These systems are versatile and energy efficient, and they’re quieter and smaller as well.
Before Buying Into a Development, Be Sure to Review the HOA’s Reserve Budget
Another heating and air conditioning issue linked to homeowner’s associations is attached dwelling with de-centralized HVAC systems. Some large developments use commercial-type air conditioning and heating systems that run conditioned air through a network of ducts. Problems may arise when it’s unclear as to who is responsible for air conditioner repair in Geneva. In such a case, the best step to take is to ask the HOA’s board to explain who’s responsible for what.
Before buying into such an attached community, be sure to review their reserve budget. A reserve budget is funding set aside for maintenance, improvements, and important community repairs. A good rule for HOAs to follow is to estimate the cost of replacement and repairs over a system’s lifetime and to divide that figure by the system’s expected lifespan in years.
In Closing
Buying a home in an HOA community provides a certain level of prestige and reassurance, but it may create problems as well. By following these tips and doing your due diligence, you’ll avoid most of these issues. Visit https://www.bluefrosthvac.com/ to learn more about the company’s services or call Blue Frost Heating & Cooling to schedule service.
