Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more 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 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, don’t hesitate to contact Parker County Cooling & Heating. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of 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 can lead to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. 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 still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Parker County Cooling & Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Parker County Cooling & Heating wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 817-380-5213. 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.