Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority 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 system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact AC Sales. Our seasoned technicians 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 type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy 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. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, like refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with AC Sales Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and AC Sales wants to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at (337) 234-2345. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.