Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant 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 learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Farris Heating & Air. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new 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 clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and potential 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 there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. 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 high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Farris Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Farris Heating & Air can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 918-333-0376. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.