Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial 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 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 Childress Heating & AC. Our experienced team 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 identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
Another good idea is to find out 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. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible 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 that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Childress Heating & AC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Childress Heating & AC will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 540-675-4306. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.