Purchasing 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, so being thorough 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, feel free to call Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning. Our staff 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 identifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully 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 this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. 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 beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Pure Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 630-313-2509. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.