Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for 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 pros, don't hesitate to contact Struven Heating & Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

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 should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar 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?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high 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 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 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for any concerning items that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

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 technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Chat with Struven Heating & Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Struven Heating & Cooling wants to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 219-292-0956. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.