Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact HCE Systems. 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 clarifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last 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 more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy 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. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for 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?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, 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 current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with HCE Systems Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and HCE Systems will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 276-302-0076. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.