Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Air Temperature Control. 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 clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

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 tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics 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 kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means lower 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Air Temperature Control Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Air Temperature Control can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 478-202-3170. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.