Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new 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 outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians 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 determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense 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 considering a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating 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 lower 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. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any serious damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.
A Call with Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 519-296-4437. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.