Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more 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, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all 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, don’t hesitate to contact 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. On average, 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 are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. 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?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. 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 strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious 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 certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and 1st Choice Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 949-204-0859. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.