Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. 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 the following 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 deeper opinion from the experts, feel free to call ACE Solutions. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer 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. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. In general, 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 eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. 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. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from certified HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with ACE Solutions Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and ACE Solutions wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at 201-426-0650. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.