Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Bain Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a 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 shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of 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 available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. 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. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 high AFUE ratings indicate 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 heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Bain Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Bain Heating & Air Conditioning can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 256-270-1196. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.
