Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. 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 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 Central Air LLC. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if 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. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a 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. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Central Air LLC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Central Air LLC will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 203-357-5913. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.