Buying your first home is thrilling. 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 potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Better Air. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much routine maintenance it might need.

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 potential new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it's still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, 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 wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Better Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Better Air wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 507-663-1208. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.