Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc.. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. In general, 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 break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to 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, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it's beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Call with West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and West Jefferson Plumbing and Heating, Inc. can ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 614-879-9091. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.