Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is essential. 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 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, don’t hesitate to contact Gilray Heating and Cooling. Our staff 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 tend to last longer than air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. What Does the Warranty Cover?
Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that seem confusing 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 that information is available. This service history can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks like filter changes, 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 high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Try and find 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 indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This can mean bizarre noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to cover up any serious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC professionals. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.
A Consultation with Gilray Heating and Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Gilray Heating and Cooling can ensure yours is too. Reach out with us at 715-301-0727. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.