Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more 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 substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don't hesitate to contact Air Service Co.. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a 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 plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. 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?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully 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 available. This service history can reveal 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 such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency can lead to more manageable 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. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, such as leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Air Service Co. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Air Service Co. can ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 918-212-8943. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.