Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new 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 helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Olde Towne Heating & Air. Our staff can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning 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, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it's important to note that details 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. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

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

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you should still examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, like leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Olde Towne Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Olde Towne Heating & Air wants to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 843-485-0967. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.