Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling 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 helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 experts, feel free to call Gilray Heating and Cooling. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with strong energy efficiency can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. 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 strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems 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 any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any visible damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, like leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with Gilray Heating and Cooling Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Gilray Heating and Cooling can ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at 715-301-0727. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.