Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of numerous details 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 substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all 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 deeper opinion from the pros, feel free to call Marios Air Conditioning. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

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

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than 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 ensures you have a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of 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 such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings mean the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any obvious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Marios Air Conditioning Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Marios Air Conditioning will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 760-314-4766. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.