Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for 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 are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning 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 still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high 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 is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency means 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. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning wants to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 360-255-5857. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.