Purchasing your first home is exciting. 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 vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In this 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, feel free to call Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
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 last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible 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 that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, 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 strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find 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 higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems 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 at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.
A Consultation with Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Interstate Heating & Air Conditioning can ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 402-509-5940. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.