Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact Fire & Ice HVAC. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
It’s just as smart to learn 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 prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review 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 the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate 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 means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still examine the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, including refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Fire & Ice HVAC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Fire & Ice HVAC will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 703-595-4157. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.