Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details 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 potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Cooler Tymes LLC. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems 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. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Cooler Tymes LLC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Cooler Tymes LLC wants to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 623-208-6444. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.