Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for 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 deeper opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact Parker County Cooling & Heating. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential 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 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. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of 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 any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

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

Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Parker County Cooling & Heating will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 817-380-5213. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.