Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial 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 system. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, don’t hesitate to contact Select Comfort Systems. Our experienced team can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC systems like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. What Is the Current System’s Age?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re looking at a potential new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can assist with maintenance expenses. HVAC warranties should take care of parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Does the System Have a Documented Maintenance History?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information 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 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 great energy efficiency means lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Check out 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 high AFUE ratings mean the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems During Your Inspection?

Even if you don’t have experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for any concerning items that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This can mean bizarre noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any obvious damage.

7. Have You Asked Your Local HVAC Professional?

If you’re not quite sure about the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get input from experienced HVAC technicians. They can spot things you may not know about, like leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with Select Comfort Systems Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home ought to be exciting, and Select Comfort Systems can ensure it stays that way. Connect with us at 801-305-4777. We can discuss how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to dive into home-ownership with confidence.