Buying 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 understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough 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 pros, don’t hesitate to contact The Chilly Pig. 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 type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 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 might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

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

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. 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 indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

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 not, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with The Chilly Pig Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and The Chilly Pig will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 321-205-1234. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.