Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. 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 share 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 experts, consider calling Central Heating & Plumbing. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This kind of information 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 like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, 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 might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Central Heating & Plumbing Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Central Heating & Plumbing can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 724-401-1843. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.