Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Age Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, 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 more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Age Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Age Heating & Cooling can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 208-603-2210. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
