Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling 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 source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share 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 Solar Air Inc.. Our experienced team 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 has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn 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 plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for 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?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with Solar Air Inc. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Solar Air Inc. wants to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 954-320-7398. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.