Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re 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, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Woody's Sudden Service. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?
Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
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. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any visible damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.
A Consultation with Woody's Sudden Service Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Woody's Sudden Service will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 703-278-2036. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.