Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough is important 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 experts, feel free to call Air Masters Heating & Cooling. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Knowing 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 looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of 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 covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of 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. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with strong energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for 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 indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

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

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Air Masters Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 360-205-7115. 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.