Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact North Mechanical Heating and Cooling. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

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

Take a close look at 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 is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible 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 input from trained HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, including leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with North Mechanical Heating and Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and North Mechanical Heating and Cooling wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 928-263-8570. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.