Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. 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 the following guide, we’ll share 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 Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians 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 kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance costs. 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. 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 accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings mean 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, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious 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 never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Comfort Concepts Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 405-494-7444. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.
