Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. 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 outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc. Our staff 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 clarifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to 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 much better sense 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 looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to 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, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize 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 accessible. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about 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?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?
Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Fleming Heating & Air Conditioning Inc can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 877-389-2465. 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.
