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 understanding your potential new HVAC system is vital. The property’s HVAC system represents a significant investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence helps all first-time homebuyers.

In the following 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 Just Right Heating and Cooling. Our staff can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home has. Furnaces generally last longer than air conditioners, and relatively new types of HVAC products like heat pumps feature average life spans that are impressively long. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a much better sense of how much routine maintenance it might need.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Having the knowledge of when it was installed helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might eventually stop working. Older systems are more prone to problems, so budgeting for a replacement unit might be needed faster than expected.

3. Is the Warranty Still in Effect?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is still under 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. Make sure you go over any terms you don’t recognize to make sure you fully understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. Has the System Ever Been Professionally Serviced or Maintained?

Take a close look at the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if such information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the system constantly broke down 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 is a positive sign indicating 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 lower utility bills and less of an impact on the environment. Look for 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 illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

6. Have You Noticed Signs of Problems After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without heating and cooling expertise, you should still examine the HVAC system yourself. Keep an eye out for signs of problems 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 to cover up any serious damage.

7. Have You Sought Out Expert Advice?

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 an assessment and recommendation from certified HVAC technicians. They can spot things you might miss, such as refrigerant leaks, bad electrical connections or damaged ductwork.

A Chat with Just Right Heating and Cooling Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Just Right Heating and Cooling wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 513-392-4969. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.