Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Booneville Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
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 last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for 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 examine the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Call with Booneville Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Booneville Heating & Cooling can ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 662-269-8716. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.
