Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important for first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 deeper opinion from the experts, consider calling West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding 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 looking at a new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting 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 assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. 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. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Call with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 614-879-9091. 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.