Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re probably 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 vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough 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 deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Olde Towne Heating & Air. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense 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. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any serious 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 never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Olde Towne Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Olde Towne Heating & Air will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 843-485-0967. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.