Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and potential source of 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 system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the experts, feel free to call James Heating & A/C, Inc. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC systems like heat pumps boast average life spans longer than ever. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details 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?

Don’t forget to check 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. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks like filter changes, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 higher AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any obvious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from trained HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might not, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.

A Consultation with James Heating & A/C, Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and James Heating & A/C, Inc will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 336-853-6070. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.