Purchasing your first home is thrilling. You’re likely juggling a dozen things or more about making the right choice. We believe that gaining insight into 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 outline seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling system. And if you want a more in-depth opinion from the pros, feel free to call Stieferman Heating Company Inc. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights that are second to none.

1. Which Kind of HVAC System Does the Home Use?

Start by identifying what specific HVAC system the home includes. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC equipment like heat pumps feature average life spans that are even longer. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear understanding of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Old Is the Current HVAC System?

It also helps to learn 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 eventually stop working. Older systems may be more vulnerable to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Does the System Have a Warranty?

Check if the HVAC system is still under warranty. If it is, this can lower 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 seem confusing to make sure you fully understand your coverage and the likelihood of out-of-pocket costs.

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

Don’t forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This service history can demonstrate if the repair needs are high or how much upkeep was provided. Inquire about key tasks such as changing the air filter, which means it enjoyed more regularly scheduled tune-ups.

5. What Are the Energy Efficiency Ratings?

Finding a home that features an HVAC system with high energy efficiency can lead to smaller utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. Check out the seasonal energy efficiency ratio (SEER) ratings for air conditioning as well as the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while high 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 experience in HVAC systems, you can still take a moment to examine the HVAC system yourself. Look for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This might consist of odd sounds, spots with uneven heating or cooling and attempts to hide any serious damage.

7. Is an Experienced HVAC Technician Available to Help?

If you’re still hesitant to make an offer because of 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 may not know about, such as leaks in the refrigerant, damage to the wiring or flawed ductwork.

A Call with Stieferman Heating Company Inc Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and Stieferman Heating Company Inc will do everything possible to ensure it stays that way. Get in touch with us at 573-635-3547. We can go over the details about how our HVAC services help make this process smoother, giving you what you need to step into your new home with confidence.