Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. 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 outline 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 Western Mechanical, Inc.. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.
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 new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received 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 high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any visible damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.
A Call with Western Mechanical, Inc. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Western Mechanical, Inc. can ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 435-753-5515. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.