Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of 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 more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Verona HVAC. Our experienced team can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model gives you a much better sense 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 considering a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are at a higher risk of 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, that’s great news because it 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 make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is available. This kind of information can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Locate the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and 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 illustrate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items 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 not quite sure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaks in the refrigerant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Verona HVAC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and Verona HVAC can ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 818-306-3387. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.