Purchasing your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co.. Our staff can share details about 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 includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

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 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 shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Be sure to check 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 often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that seem confusing 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 the records are available. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high 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. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency means lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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 illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Your Own Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get input from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and Air Commander's Heating & Air Conditioning Co. will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 863-216-2923. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.