Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share 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 Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues 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 current state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you may not know about, including leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Indoor Comfort Systems HVAC will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 215-741-5505. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.