Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Balance Point Heating & Cooling. 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 identifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on 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?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you 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 this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. 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?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible 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 experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.
A Call with Balance Point Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Balance Point Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 816-265-0448. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.