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 source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC systems like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting 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 lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize 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 that information is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire 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 experience in HVAC systems, it's still a good idea to check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items that haven't been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow 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 condition of the HVAC system, it's wise to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, like leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc wants to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 602-789-3315. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.