Purchasing 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 potential new HVAC system is essential. 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 setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Pliescott HVAC Services LLC. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on 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?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Pliescott HVAC Services LLC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Pliescott HVAC Services LLC can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 410-228-4822. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.