Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough 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 experts, feel free to call E.B. Air. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

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. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if 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?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details 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. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, 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 high 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. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

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

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and E.B. Air wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 979-335-4262. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.