Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling numerous details about 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 is important for first-time homebuyers.
In the following 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 Haselhoff Air Solutions. 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 identifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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 mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.
A Consultation with Haselhoff Air Solutions Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Haselhoff Air Solutions will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 515-450-8739. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.