Buying your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, illustrating why a detailed inspection helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, consider calling Prestige Plumbing and Air. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps boast average life spans that are impressively long. Knowing the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out 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. Knowing 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 budgeting for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. What Does the Warranty Cover?

Be sure to check the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, you’ll appreciate how it can assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but the details in each policy will vary. Make sure you go over any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Next, examine the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if the records are available. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems 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. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency can lead to lower utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Look for the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as 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 efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, you should still inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, unequal airflow and attempts to hide any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re unsure about the current state of the HVAC system, it’s beneficial to get an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, including leaks in the refrigerant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

A Call with Prestige Plumbing and Air Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home ought to be exciting, and Prestige Plumbing and Air will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 573-510-2535. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.