Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely trying to keep track of 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 potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call E.B. Air. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

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 expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about 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 means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any obvious 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 never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with E.B. Air Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and E.B. Air can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 979-335-4262. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.