Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough 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 system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Vogts Heating & Air. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?
Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. 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 means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, it's still a good idea to 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 obvious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Call with Vogts Heating & Air Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Vogts Heating & Air will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 208-621-0129. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.