Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. 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 this guide, we’ll share 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, consider calling Three Rivers Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning 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, this can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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?
Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of 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 more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.
A Call with Three Rivers Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Three Rivers Heating & Cooling can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 503-213-4433. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
