Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In this 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 deeper opinion from the experts, don’t hesitate to contact May's Heating & Air. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by identifying what kind of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or considerations if it might break down. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that’s great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties typically include parts and labor, but it’s important to note that details will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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 that information is available. This kind of information can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often a tune-up was scheduled. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which can indicate it received regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. Are You Aware of the System’s Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Selecting a system with great energy efficiency isn’t just smart; it leads to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Try and find 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 During Your Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, it’s still a good idea to check out the HVAC system on your own. Look for signs of problems that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, unequal airflow and attempts at concealing any serious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the current state of the HVAC system, it’s never a bad idea to get a professional opinion from experienced HVAC technicians. They will be much more likely to catch things you might miss, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with May's Heating & Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home should be thrilling, and May's Heating & Air can ensure yours is too. Get in touch with us at 301-690-0397. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.