Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling numerous details 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 significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear idea 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 looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

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 there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Herman Allen Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 804-302-6657. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.