Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling 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 significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share 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, consider calling Mountain Air. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

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

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

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

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means 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. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while higher AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold 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 overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Mountain Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home ought to be exciting, and Mountain Air will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 304-413-1287. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.