Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into 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 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced team 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 has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 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 at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

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 lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

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

Take a close look at 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 much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate 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 the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect 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, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious 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 professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Allstar Heating & Air Conditioning wants to ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 805-242-9638. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.