Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority 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, don’t hesitate to contact GV Heating & Air. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. 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 you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received 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 lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with GV Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and GV Heating & Air wants to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 763-535-2000. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.