Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. 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 this guide, we’ll outline 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, don’t hesitate to contact B & B Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians 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 identifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding 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 considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
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 should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar 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 the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, 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 high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own 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 on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
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 trained HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Call with B & B Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and B & B Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 314-325-7552. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.