Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re 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 should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Covington Air Systems. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if 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 lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

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

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about 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 isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems 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 hide any serious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with Covington Air Systems Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Covington Air Systems will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at (770) 462-5319. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.