Buying your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact TopTec. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

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 should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can help with maintenance costs. 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?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with strong energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for 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 more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you may not know about, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Call with TopTec Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and TopTec wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 847-362-0262. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.