Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline 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 Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn 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 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?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

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

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. 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?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, like leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Stephen Hurst Pack Heating and Cooling will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 740-474-5940. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.