Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Pepper AC & Heat. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.
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. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully 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 such information is accessible. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about 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?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for potential issues that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Pepper AC & Heat Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Pepper AC & Heat will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 940-202-1184. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.
