Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection is important for first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Northern Comfort Inc. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?
Another good idea is to find out 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. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time 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, you’ll appreciate how it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing 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 this kind of history is available. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. 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. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, it's still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, like refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Consultation with Northern Comfort Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Northern Comfort Inc wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 507-387-6596. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.