Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more 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 should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 experts, don't hesitate to contact Solar Air Inc.. Our staff 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 than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 reveal if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Solar Air Inc. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Solar Air Inc. can ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 954-320-7398. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.