Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more about 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 source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough helps all first-time homebuyers.
In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for learning everything you can about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, consider calling Mayeuxs AC & Heating. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by clarifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. On average, HVAC systems tend to run for about 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you plan for possible repair needs or considerations if it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so planning ahead of time for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can help with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but it's important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to make sure you fully understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.
4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?
Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how often a tune-up was scheduled. 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?
Selecting a system with high energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning along with 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even without heating and cooling expertise, it's still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any serious damage.
7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?
If you're still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it's wise to get input from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, like leaking coolant, damage to the wiring or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Mayeuxs AC & Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Mayeuxs AC & Heating will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Reach out with us at (985) 764-2426. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.
