Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant 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 learning everything you can 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 Paniccia Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense 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. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time 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, 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 that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. 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. 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 lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Paniccia Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Paniccia Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 219-872-2198. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.