Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline 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 pros, don’t hesitate to contact Superior Comfort Systems. Our experienced team 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 has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

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 potential new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if 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. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Be sure to check 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 the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully 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 such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate 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 like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency can lead 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, such as refrigerant leaks, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.

A Call with Superior Comfort Systems Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Superior Comfort Systems can ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 828-202-7025. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.