Buying your first home is thrilling. 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 essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share 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, consider calling AW Heating & Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from certified HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with AW Heating & Air Conditioning Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and AW Heating & Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 402-438-7992. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.