Completing the search for 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 future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all 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 deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Northwest Services. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?
Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of 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 the records are available. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads 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 high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?
Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Northwest Services Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Northwest Services can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 419-548-5017. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.