Completing the search for your first home is exciting. You’re likely juggling numerous details about making the right choice. We believe that understanding your potential new HVAC system is essential. The property’s HVAC system represents a substantial investment and source of potential long-term costs, which is why due diligence should be a top priority for first-time homebuyers.

In the following guide, we’ll share seven tips for discovering all there is to know about a home’s heating and cooling setup. And if you want a deeper opinion from the pros, consider calling J.L. Brady Company LLC. Our seasoned technicians can share details about your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What Type of HVAC System Is It?

Start by determining what specific HVAC system the home features. Furnaces tend to last longer compared to air conditioners, and some of the latest types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans that are even longer. Getting the details on the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

Another good idea is to find out how old the HVAC system is when you’re considering a new home. In general, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Knowing when it was installed helps you plan for possible repair needs or when it might break down. Older systems are at a higher risk of 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 assist with maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into 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 this kind of history is accessible. This service history can reveal if there have been regular problems or how often maintenance is performed. 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 strong energy efficiency means more manageable 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. The higher the SEER rating, the more efficient the cooling over the whole season, while strong AFUE ratings indicate that the fuel is more effectively burned for useable heat.

6. Can You Spot Trouble After Completing an Informal Inspection?

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you should still check out the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, unequal airflow and attempts to cover up any visible 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 beneficial to get input from trained HVAC professionals. They will be much more likely to catch things you might not, such as leaking coolant, bad electrical connections or flawed ductwork.

A Chat with J.L. Brady Company LLC Helps Take the Stress Out of Your Home-Buying Journey

Choosing your first home is meant to be a joyful event, and J.L. Brady Company LLC will do everything possible to ensure that doesn’t change. Connect with us at 309-517-7511. We can talk about how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.