Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Home Comfort Heating & Air. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new 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 gives you a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you 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 service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating 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 means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 higher 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 the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

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

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Home Comfort Heating & Air will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 763-276-0617. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.