Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your future HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant 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 more in-depth opinion from the experts, don't hesitate to contact Siloam Springs Heating & AC. Our experienced team can weigh in on your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?
Start by determining what type of HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model ensures you have a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.
2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?
It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. On average, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might shut down for good. Older systems are at a higher risk of problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.
3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?
Be sure to check the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can lower maintenance expenses. 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 the likelihood of 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 such information is available. This kind of information can reveal if the repair needs are high or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks like filter changes, which is a positive sign indicating regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. Do You Know Its Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a system with great 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 as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while high AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?
Even without experience in HVAC systems, you should still examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that weren’t mentioned by the seller or real estate agent. This might consist of odd sounds, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts at concealing any visible damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you're unsure about the overall state of the HVAC system, it's never a bad idea to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC technicians. They are skilled at identifying things you might not, like leaking coolant, wiring issues or damaged ductwork.
A Consultation with Siloam Springs Heating & AC Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Siloam Springs Heating & AC will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 479-308-8176. We can talk about how our HVAC services give you peace of mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.