Buying your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.
In the following 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 deeper opinion from the experts, consider calling LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc.. Our seasoned technicians can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. For the most part, 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 eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Active?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Review any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning and the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. Higher SEER ratings mean better cooling across the entire season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems After Your Own Inspection?
Even if you don’t have the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re not quite sure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get input from experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.
A Chat with LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and LTS Plumbing & Heating Inc. can ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 570-648-0748. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.