Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more 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, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share 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 pros, feel free to call Done Right Air. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics 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. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, 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 can lead to 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. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you should still examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Done Right Air Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Done Right Air will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 414-207-4034. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.