Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Aggressive Mechanical. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 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 fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating 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 high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 mean the fuel is efficiently converted into 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 inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, like leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Aggressive Mechanical Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Aggressive Mechanical will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 732-806-5536. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.