Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling 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 source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Paniccia Heating & Cooling. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by determining what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might shut down for good. 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 covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that seem confusing to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.
4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?
Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?
If you're not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, including refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with Paniccia Heating & Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Paniccia Heating & Cooling will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 219-872-2198. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.