Purchasing 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 gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call Covington Air Systems. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and potential 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 such information is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with great energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while higher 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 heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or inefficient ductwork.
A Call with Covington Air Systems Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Covington Air Systems can ensure that doesn’t change. Get in touch with us at (770) 462-5319. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.