Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. 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 future HVAC system is crucial. 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 pros, consider calling Halverson Brothers Inc. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. 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?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating 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 strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate 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 strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up 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 professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Halverson Brothers Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Halverson Brothers Inc can ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 715-352-4052. 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.