Completing the search for 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 understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important 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 experts, don’t hesitate to contact Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team can weigh in on 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 includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides 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 last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
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. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of 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 this kind of history is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to 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. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.
A Call with Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Connect with us at (815) 914-6197. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.