Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling All Solutions Heating & Cooling. Our staff 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 specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs 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. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of 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 potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, 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 current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with All Solutions Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and All Solutions Heating & Cooling wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 971-245-2459. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
