Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. 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 discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Kapaun & Brown. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing 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 considering a potential 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 break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Does the System Have a Warranty?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Review any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Finding a home that features an HVAC system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for any concerning items 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 cover up any visible damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you’re unsure about the current state 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 might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Call with Kapaun & Brown Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Finding your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Kapaun & Brown wants to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 641-812-2028. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.