Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details 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 significant investment and potential source of 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 more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products 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 maintenance it will require.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
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. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 the records are accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Look 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 visible 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 wise to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.
A Call with Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Redhawk Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 432-237-0168. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
