Buying your first home is an exhilarating experience. You’re probably trying to keep track of numerous details 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 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 more in-depth opinion from the pros, don't hesitate to contact J.L. Brady Company LLC. Our seasoned technicians can help you compare your options with industry insights you won’t find elsewhere.

1. What HVAC System Are You Working With?

Start by clarifying what type of HVAC system the home has. Furnaces tend to last longer than air conditioners, and newer types of HVAC products like heat pumps can offer average life spans longer than ever. Knowing the make and specific model provides a clear idea of how much maintenance it will require.

2. How Long Ago Was the System Installed?

It’s just as smart to learn how old the HVAC system is when you're looking at a new home. For the most part, HVAC systems should survive for around 10-12 years. Learning its approximate installation date helps you prepare for any needed servicing or when it might break down. Older systems are more prone to problems, so fiscal planning for a replacement unit could be necessary sooner than you thought.

3. Is the Warranty Active?

Don’t forget to look into whether the HVAC system is covered by a warranty. If it is, that's great news because it can lighten the load for maintenance costs. HVAC warranties often cover parts and labor, but specifics will vary. Don’t forget to look into any terms that aren’t familiar to ensure you understand your coverage and any possible out-of-pocket costs.

4. When Was the Last Time It Received Maintenance?

Don't forget to check the maintenance history of the HVAC system, if that information is accessible. This kind of information can reveal if the system constantly broke down or how often maintenance is performed. Inquire about 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 can lead to more manageable utility bills and a smaller environmental impact. 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 strong AFUE ratings illustrate that the fuel is efficiently converted into useable heat.

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

Even without the know-how of an HVAC technician, you can still take a moment to inspect the HVAC system on your own. Keep an eye out for signs of problems that might have been overlooked. This includes strange noises, stubborn patches of the house that are too hot or cold and attempts to hide any obvious 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 wise to get an assessment and recommendation from experienced HVAC professionals. They can spot things you might miss, including leaking coolant, wiring issues or inefficient ductwork.

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

Selecting your first home should be thrilling, and J.L. Brady Company LLC wants to ensure that doesn’t change. Reach out with us at 309-517-7511. We can discuss how our HVAC services ease your mind, giving you what you need to make an offer with confidence.