Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Service Max Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by determining 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 even longer. Tracking down 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?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize 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 the records are available. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate 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 indicate that 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, it's still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems 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 at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They can spot things you may not know about, such as leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.
A Chat 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 yours is too. Reach out with us at 360-255-5857. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.