Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is crucial. 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 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 deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Luikart Heating & Cooling. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear understanding 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 considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 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 Still in Effect?
Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more 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 less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?
Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you should still inspect the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide 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 wise to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as leaking coolant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.
A Chat with Luikart Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Luikart Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 740-344-5497. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.