Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this 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 pros, don’t hesitate to contact Point Heating & Cooling. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what kind 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 impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense 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. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of 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 budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find 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 mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide 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 never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Point Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Point Heating & Cooling wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 715-504-0533. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.