Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of 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, which is why due diligence helps all 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, feel free to call Tri County Climate Control LLC. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear understanding 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 considering a 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 when it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is 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 can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Tri County Climate Control LLC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Tri County Climate Control LLC can ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 541-238-2797. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.