Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important 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 pros, consider calling Air Current AC & Heat. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

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. Knowing when it was installed 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 budgeting 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, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems 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 can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong 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 and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any obvious 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 an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, including leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Air Current AC & Heat Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Air Current AC & Heat can ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 713-322-4318. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.