Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling numerous details about 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 potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important 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 deeper opinion from the experts, consider calling Cooler Tymes LLC. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment 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. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning 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 help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details 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?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency means lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with Cooler Tymes LLC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Cooler Tymes LLC will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 623-208-6444. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.