Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact Assured Appliance & Heating & Air. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency means smaller 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. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Call with Assured Appliance & Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Assured Appliance & Heating & Air will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 847-306-8990. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.