Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Advanced Service AC & Heating. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, such as leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Advanced Service AC & Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Advanced Service AC & Heating can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 301-371-8807. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
