Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. 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 substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for 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 setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling Air Masters Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

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 when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

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 help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and potential 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 such information is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, including refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Air Masters Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Air Masters Heating & Cooling can ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 360-205-7115. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.