Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future 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 helps all first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?
Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 kind of information 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 such as changing the air filter, 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 isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that 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 heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Temperature Doctors Heating & Cooling can ensure yours is too. Connect with us at (815) 914-6197. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.