Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, consider calling Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling. Our staff 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 clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable 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, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of 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 accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. 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 mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?
Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Alpine Summit Heating & Cooling wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 208-561-1226. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.
