Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll outline 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 pros, feel free to call Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can share details about 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 tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 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 planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more 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 strong energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, 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 current state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 734-284-1224. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.