Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important 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 experts, don’t hesitate to contact Knoechel Heating. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps 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. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. 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 Still in Effect?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible 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 that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for 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 examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any obvious 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 never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Knoechel Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Knoechel Heating can ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 724-425-5852. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.