Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough 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, consider calling Lakeside Heating & Air. 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 identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while high 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 if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Lakeside Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Lakeside Heating & Air wants to ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 509-284-4265. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.
