Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Western Mechanical, Inc.. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

Another good idea is to find out 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. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs 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. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

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 it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential 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 accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller 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. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings mean 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 inspect the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Call with Western Mechanical, Inc. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Western Mechanical, Inc. will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 435-753-5515. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.