Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact AW Heating & Air Conditioning. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems 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 much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

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 lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any serious 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 an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with AW Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and AW Heating & Air Conditioning can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 402-438-7992. 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.