Purchasing your first home is exciting. You’re likely trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll share 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 Antonelli Comfort Solutions. Our experienced team 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 has. Furnaces generally 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 ensures you have a much better sense of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lower maintenance costs. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential 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 this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency means more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you should still check out the HVAC system yourself. Watch closely for potential issues that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This includes strange noises, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts at concealing 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 input from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, including leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Antonelli Comfort Solutions Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Antonelli Comfort Solutions will do everything possible to ensure yours is too. Connect with us at 252-424-0803. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.