Completing the search for your first home is thrilling. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.

In this guide, we’ll outline 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 pros, feel free to call County Line Mechanical LLC. Our staff can weigh in on 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 includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model gives you a clear understanding of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

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. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or when it might break down. 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 costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you 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 this kind of history is accessible. This kind of information can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how much upkeep was provided. You should at least try to track down a history of key tasks such as changing the air filter, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Purchasing a home with a heating and cooling system with high energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for 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 higher AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?

Even without experience in HVAC systems, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Watch closely for signs of problems that haven’t been mentioned by the seller. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might miss, including leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Consultation with County Line Mechanical LLC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Finding your first home should be thrilling, and County Line Mechanical LLC wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 717-216-0846. We can talk about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.