Completing the search for your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably juggling a dozen things or more to ensure you’re making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into your potential new HVAC system is crucial. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and potential source of long-term costs, so being thorough is important for first-time homebuyers.
In this guide, we’ll share 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, feel free to call Mayeuxs AC & Heating. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.
1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?
Start by identifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer compared to air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Tracking down the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much it might cost in upkeep over time.
2. What Is the Current System’s Age?
It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a potential new home. In general, HVAC systems last about 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you anticipate future maintenance needs or considerations if it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so planning ahead of time 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 help with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties typically include 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?
Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. Ask about records for key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.
5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?
Selecting a 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 along with the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. High SEER ratings mean more efficient cooling throughout the season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.
6. Did You See Any Problems During Your Inspection?
Even if you don’t have heating and cooling expertise, it’s still a good idea to examine the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for potential issues that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to cover up any obvious damage.
7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?
If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of the condition of the HVAC system, it’s wise to get an assessment and recommendation from trained HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might not, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.
A Chat with Mayeuxs AC & Heating Simplifies Your Home-Buying Journey
Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and Mayeuxs AC & Heating can ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at (985) 764-2426. We can discuss how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.
