Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of 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, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don't hesitate to contact All Solutions Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you 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 considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
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 often cover parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and potential 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 this kind of history is available. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. 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. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, it's still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it's wise to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Call with All Solutions Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and All Solutions Heating & Cooling can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 971-245-2459. 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.
