Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share 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 experts, feel free to call Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating. Our staff can help you compare your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but the details in each policy 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. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with great energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 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 the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Enertek Air Conditioning & Heating will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at (818) 727-9993. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.