Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial 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 outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Speedy Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on 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 tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over 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 service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Speedy Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Speedy Air Conditioning wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 239-244-3439. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.
