Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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, don’t hesitate to contact Freed Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment 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. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It also helps to learn 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. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Consultation with Freed Heating & Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Freed Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 309-323-9584. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.